Gas-Saving Tips to Combat High Gas Prices

The cost of gas—like everything—is going up these days. If you’re not lucky enough to work from home, commuting to work, school, activities and get-togethers can get expensive. Are you asking yourself, “How can I save money on gas?” or “What are some ways to drive more fuel efficiently?” Learning some simple tips and tricks can help you save money when you’re at the pump.

Here’s how you can save money on gas:

• Check your tires: Are your tires properly inflated? If you’re not sure, it’s time to check your tire pressure. When you drive on improperly-inflated tires, it can increase your gas consumption by more than 2 percent. That might not sound like a lot, but it adds up fast. Find out how much air your tires need; then check them monthly to make sure they’re still at the right levels.
• Don’t overload the vehicle: Every once in a while, you’ll need to overload your vehicle. Maybe you’re moving a kid to college or taking some donations to the thrift store. Either way, there are times that an overloaded vehicle is unavoidable—but once those occasions are over, make sure that you remove all the non-essentials. Lowering the weight by 100 pounds saves about 3 cents per gallon. All you need to remember is that the heavier your vehicle is, the more fuel it has to consume.
• Slow down while driving: Maybe it’s time to thank that slow Sunday driver holding up traffic in front of you. Reducing your driving speed can save a lot of money. In fact, every 5 miles over 50 mph costs an extra 20 cents per gallon—and that’s not even counting the extra fuel consumed when accelerating, speeding and braking hard. If you want to maintain good fuel economy, try to maintain a steady and reasonable pace. It might not be a fun way to drive, but every penny adds up.
• Avoid idling whenever possible: If you’re waiting more than 10 seconds in traffic, consider turning off your engine. The next time you’re stuck behind an accident on the freeway and the traffic isn’t moving at all, save gas by turning the engine off. Your engine uses gas even when you’re not moving.
• Remove external attachments: How aerodynamic is your vehicle? The question might seem silly, especially if you’re not driving a performance car, but external attachments like ski and bike racks can increase drag. When attachments create drag, your engine has to work harder (and burn more fuel) to power the vehicle.
• Use the right oil for your engine: Finally, make sure that you use the right oil for your engine, and change it or top it off as needed. Your mileage is reduced around 2 to 3 percent when you use the wrong oil.

These tips should help you save more money on gas—you might already practice some of them. Keep them in mind the next time you wince at the gas pump.

Call S & R Repairs Towing & Recovery Inc. for towing and repair help today.

Categorised in: Truck Driving