Ways to Improve Your Car’s Fuel Efficiency

Since one of the biggest driving expenses is the price of gas, it is a good idea to use the various tips available to help improve your car’s overall fuel efficiency.  Experts say they can save you up to 20% on fuel cost and most are quite simple to do.   

 

One of the easiest things you can do is to keep your tires properly inflated.  It is estimated that alone can improve fuel efficiency by 3% and has the added benefit of extending the life of the tires.  In order to maintain the correct pressure, check tires at least once a month or as needed.  Optimally check the pressure when the car has not been driven for at least three hours or for less than a mile.  

Another fuel saving tip is to make sure to do all scheduled tune-ups as well as routinely changing the air filter (check it at the same time you are having the oil changed).  If you have not already done so, consult the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendation on the best gas to use.  

Also reduce extra weight you may be carrying around.  According to WikiHow, each additional 100 lbs. load can mean an increase of 1 to 2% fuel usage.  Along the same line, avoid carrying weight on the roof rack as it creates drag, and thereby, increases fuel consumption. 

Your driving habits also play a role in reducing your car’s mpg.  Moderate how you use the brakes to stop the vehicle, avoid rapid acceleration, and drive the speed limit.  Studies show almost 33% more gas is used during freeway driving and up to 5% more in city driving when you do not moderate your driving speeds.  Furthermore get out of the habit of warming your car up before you start driving, and if you are going to be sitting for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine.  Finally use your cruise control if your car is so equipped. 

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