Ten Tips to Improve Your Gas Mileage
Saving money at the pump

No matter what kind of car you drive or where you’re going, it’s always a good idea to conserve fuel. It saves you money and lessens the burden on the nation’s petroleum reserves. Here are a few tips that will help you save money the next time you gas up.

1. Check It Out

Driving with a dirty air filter or gummed up gas filter will not only have a negative impact on your car, but on your wallet as well. Ensuring your car is clean and efficient is the first step in improving your gas mileage. Make sure your car is tuned up, properly adjusted for idling, and is using the right grade of oil. A properly maintained car, operating at peak efficiency, is your first line of defense at the pump.

2. Lighten the Load

Before you head out on the road, make sure you are traveling light. Unnecessary weight decreases fuel economy. It is estimated that for the average car an extra 200 pounds amounts to one mile per gallon lost. So, check your trunk and back seat and make sure that the bag of sand you carry around for traction in winter snow is left home during the off-season, as well as all the other unnecessary things that may collect in the trunk throughout the year.

3. Don’t Be Under-Tired

Check your vehicle’s owners manual for the correct tire pressure level. Under-inflated tires are a drag on your car and may pose a danger as well. If you own an SUV or other truck, avoid the oversized wheels that can decrease your mileage and go with the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation.

4. Smooth It Out

Much of your ability to save money on gas is in your hands — and feet. How you drive can greatly impact how much you spend on gas. Quick "jack rabbit" acceleration and sharp braking can be a tremendous waste of gas, not to mention a potential danger to you and others on the road. The smoother you drive, the happier you’ll be behind the wheel and at the gas pump.

5. Take It Easy

Your car will perform better and provide better gas mileage if you maintain the right speed on the road. It’s estimated that every mile driven above 55 MPH costs 1% in fuel economy. Fast driving increases the aerodynamic drag of your car and the resistance between the road and your tires increase. If your car is equipped with it and road conditions are favorable, use your cruise-control to maintain an even speed.

6. Plan Ahead

Before you get in your car to run those weekend errands, think about where you’re going and plan a route that keeps the trip short and avoids backtracking over the same roads needlessly. Consolidate your trips and errands and car pool whenever possible. Listen to radio traffic reports to avoid tie-ups and congestion.

7. Don’t Be Idle

Most cars today don’t need idling to warm them up when first started. If you’re going to be stopped waiting for a passenger, turn your car off instead of idling. Idling burns more gas than the re-starting of your car.

8. Don’t Be a Drag

Be aware of things that impact the aerodynamics of your vehicle. You can improve gas mileage by ensuring that there is minimal drag (pushing air around your vehicle). Keeping a roof box on your car when it’s not being used or having an open bed without a cover on a pick-up truck will slow up your speed and decrease your gas mileage.

9. Cool It — Wisely

It can get hot, but don’t use your car’s air conditioner as a first response to the heat. On days when this gas guzzling feature can’t be avoided at least give the AC an easier task. When the car’s interior is really hot, start out by rolling down the windows to create an air flow to force the hot air out the back as you move. Then, if you need it, roll up the windows and turn on the air conditioner.

10. When You Gas Up…

Be sure to use the grade of gas recommended by your car’s manufacturer.