Five Tactics to Help Save on Gas
With gas prices as high as they have been in some areas – at almost $4 a gallon – and as fluctuating in other areas, many drivers feel like they need to buy a new, more efficient vehicle in order to save on gas. With so many of us getting ready to hit the road for summer vacations, day trips, and even long cross-country hauls, saving money on gas and gas consumption is something at the forefront of all our minds. Luckily, there are some ways to save gas without having to invest in a fancy new car with the best “gas-saving” technology. Believe it or not, there are some small adjustments you can make to your traveling and driving habits to help save on gas.
Plan Your Route
When running errands or taking a long trip, make sure to plan the trip carefully to help reduce the number of miles being driven to and from. Need to run to the grocery store and pick the kids up from school? Do not take two separate trips – combining the errands helps stretch your vehicle’s fuel economy.
Check Tire Pressure
Another important tip is making sure to keep tires properly inflated during all seasons of the year. Low tire pressure can cause rolling resistance, which can have a negative effect on your gas mileage. Checking and adjusting your vehicle’s tire pressure at least every one to two weeks can make a big difference.
Warm the Engine
Vehicles have historically gotten better fuel economy when the engine is warm. So, if you have to run errands, go to the furthest destination first and work your way backward – this helps warm the engine up and help it remain at an efficient temperature even after it has been parked for some time.
Avoid Ethanol Fuel
Gasoline can sometimes be cut with up to 10 or 15 percent ethanol, which is also referred to as E10 and E15. This type of fuel is known as an absolute gas mileage killer, since traditional gasoline can store more energy than ethanol. Essentially, it takes more ethanol to go the same amount of miles on pure gasoline.
Only Turn Right
This may seem a little far-fetched, but making mostly right turns means there is less time idling at stop lights waiting for that green arrow to appear, especially when driving in the city. The shipping giant FedEx practices this fuel saving method whenever possible—and Discovery Channel’s “MythBusters” has even proven this actually works! Just in case that helps.
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