Summary: Keeping your car running at its optimum fuel efficiency is more important than ever as we watch gas process get higher and higher. Common sense and some advice from Matt Price of Zeigler Tire will keep you on the road with fewer stops at the pump.
The reality is gas is hovering around $4 a gallon. Its an ugly truth and an expensive one but in order to continue to get to work, drop of the kids, go shopping, pick up the kids, go to church, go to the bank and do all the things we do in a vehicle, were going to have to adapt.
The best way to save money on gasoline is to drive less. This is, unfortunately is not always an option. We live in a community that is spread out. Walking and biking are great for some but picking up groceries for a family of six or taking your son to soccer practice with his two siblings under the age of three is not always practical on a two-wheeled bicycle.
If you are able, purchasing a more fuel efficient car will help you save on fuel costs. This is out of reach for many of us right now. Small cars are not always practical for large families and hybrids are still in a price range reserved for the well-to-do.
There are ways to improve your current vehicles fuel efficiency with little cost or effort. Taking care of your vehicle will keep it running smoothly and allow you to get the best gas mileage possible.
Tire air pressure is important in your cars fuel efficiency. Matt Price, Service Manager at Zeigler Tire at Dover stresses the importance, Proper air pressure will give you better gas mileage. Under inflated tires can be dangerous and reduce fuel economy, but overinflating your tires makes the tire more susceptible to wear. It is best to keep the air pressure at the recommended level for your vehicle.
Get a tune up. Nowadays most cars need a tune up at 100,000 miles, said Price. That was unheard of twenty years ago. Cars are just made better now. A tune-up and fluid check will keep your car running better and improve gas mileage. Keep your coolant at the proper level. If it is low it will take your vehicle longer to warm up and burn more fuel.
Contrary to popular belief, your vehicle does burn gas when you are idling. Turn off your engine if youll be idling for more than thirty seconds. Starting your vehicle does use a burst of fuel, but not as much as allowing the engine to idle too long. When you cut down on idling you also create less pollution, said Price.
Keep your air filter clean. A clean air filter is important in fuel efficiency and the general maintenance of your vehicle, said Price. Get an oil change when your auto manual recommends. For most cars, an oil change is recommended every 5000-7500 miles.
Keep your gas tank filled. When you keep your tank half filled or above you will get better fuel efficiency, said Price. The fuel pump stays submerged. It keeps moisture out of the tank and it affects how well the car runs.
Anticipate red lights and stop signs when you drive. There is no reason to accelerate only to have to brake at red lights and stop signs. Increase speed gradually and brake at longer distances to save on fuel. Aside from purchasing a new vehicle, this is the single most effective step you can take to reduce your fuel costs according to Edmunds.com.
Use cruise-control. You might be surprised how taking out the human element of driving saves fuel. Cruise-control eliminates inconsistencies in driving and allows the vehicle to run more efficiently.
Use common sense when you drive. Combine multiple trips into one. Carpool more. Do what you can to save gas. It is doubtful the price will ever decrease a significant amount.
