Let’s be honest: Nobody likes pumping hard-earned cash into their gas tank. Unfortunately, avoiding the gas pump isn’t exactly an option. Although you may not be able to save yourself from ridiculous gas prices, there are many ways to make your fuel last. The way you drive and take care of your car has a big effect on the amount of fuel you use, according to the U.S. Union of Concerned Scientists.
Keep yourself from pouring all of your money into your gas tank this month by following these easy tips for maximizing your ride’s fuel economy.
1. Give your car some TLC
The UCS said cars consume less fuel and run best when they are maintained well. This means getting regular oil and filter changes, spark plug replacements and tire rotations. By taking good care of your car, you can prevent future damage and also improve the fuel economy. Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual to figure out when each maintenance appointment should take place.
2. Drive the speed limit
Slow down – save the fast driving for the race car drivers. The Consumer Energy Center of the California Energy Commission said all vehicles lose fuel economy when driven at speeds above 55 miles per hour. As for highway driving, going 65 mph instead of 75 mph reduces fuel cost by 13 percent. Avoid driving aggressively to save fuel in both the city and on the highway by driving the speed limit.
Drive the speed limit at all times to avoid burning gas too quickly.3. Take advice from your smartphone
For drivers with an iPhone, Forbes magazine recommended using the Maps App to check traffic before leaving the house. By doing this, you can plan an alternate route and avoid wasting gas from idling during your commute. Also consider using a smartphone app that finds the cheapest gas in your area, such as GasBuddy. Not only will this save you money at the pump, but it will also keep you from wasting your time trying to find the best gas prices in your area.
4. Avoid idling for more than a minute
Unfortunately, your engine uses a little bit of gasoline at its initial start-up. According to the UCS, letting your engine idle for more than a minute can burn more gas than turning off your engine and restarting it. Avoid idling by checking traffic in advance, or considering purchasing a car with “stop-start” technology that automatically turns off the engine when you brake.
“Grab a friend and drive to work together.”
5. Carpool when you can
If you have a friend whose business is close to your office, consider carpooling with them to get to work. The Consumer Energy Center said sharing a ride to work with friends is an effective way to double your fuel economy. Alternate every other week for driving with your pals to save the both of you money on gas.
6. Park in the shade
The UCS recommended parking in the shade during the summer. Not only does this keep your car cooler during warm temperatures but it also minimizes fuel evaporation. Park in a garage or under an awning during the summer if possible. This is an easy way to save you money at the gas pump.
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