With gas prices hovering just above $3 a gallon, we're all looking for
ways to save money at the pump. Goodwrench offers the following tips to
help drivers conserve gas and reduce the load on your wallet.
1. Go the speed limit. Use cruise control.
Speed
limits are calculated for maximum safety - they'll also reward you with
maximum gas mileage. You can get up to 20 percent more mileage
traveling 55 mph than 70 mph. Use your cruise control for additional
gas savings.
2. Drive evenly. Avoid hard stops.
Quick
starts burn gas while hard stops also cost you so avoid jackrabbit
starts. Take your foot off the accelerator and coast a bit before
stopping for a traffic light or a stop sign.
3. Avoid idling and rush hour traffic.
You're burning fuel while idling - up to a gallon every hour. So, avoid rush hour traffic when possible.
4. Open windows at slow speeds but use your air conditioner on highways.
Around
town, turn your air conditioning off and roll down the windows. Open
windows create drag at speeds of 40 mph or more, so roll them up and
use the a/c.
5. Remove junk from the trunk.
Added weight in your vehicle affects fuel economy, so take unnecessary items out of your trunk.
6. Fill up when it's cool.
Cooler
temperatures in the early morning or late evening create less vapor.
Also, getting a fill-up three days before a holiday will help you save
on the per-gallon price at the pump.
7. Don't top off.
When
buying gas, stop when the pump shuts off automatically. And remember,
your tank needs both fuel and fumes, so tighten the gas cap after every
fill-up.
8. Use the correct fuel grade.
Unless
your high-performance engine requires it, most vehicles don't require
from higher-priced higher-octane gasoline. Use the lowest grade
recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
9. Don't accelerate up hills.
Build up speed before an incline, and then maintain it on the way up. Coast on the way down for additional fuel economy.
10. Avoid rooftop carriers.
Approximately
one quarter of each gallon of gas is needed to overcome wind
resistance, so avoid carrying things on your roof. If necessary, use an
aerodynamic carrier to help minimize drag.
Additional Ways You Can Save Money
Follow
your regular maintenance schedule to keep your car in its best running
condition. Some of these are things many owners can do themselves, but
it's a good idea to establish a relationship with a mechanic you trust
to perform regular inspections and services that fall outside the
typical do-it-yourselfer's repertoire:
1. Change engine oil and filter, using the recommended grade of motor oil.
2. Check and change your air filter. Inspect/clean intake system.
3.
Inspect and, if necessary, replace a clogged fuel filter. Clean or
replace dirty or malfunctioning fuel injectors. Use top-tier fuels with
higher detergent levels or treat your car to a cleansing fuel treatment
to keep your engine clean.
4. Inspect/replace spark plugs and spark plug wires.
5. Inspect/replace emissions components and/or a faulty oxygen sensor.
6. Adjust tire pressure to manufacturer-recommended specs.
7. Inspect power steering system and perform a steering alignment, if necessary. Align front suspension
8. Check the exhaust for clogged catalytic converter. Examine exhaust gas recirculation system. Get regular smog checks.
9. Check automatic transmission/torque converter for proper fluid levels and shifting.
10. Inspect and clean coils and connections.
11. Examine/replace cracked or broken vacuum hoses.
12. Ask your mechanic to perform a diagnostic check for stored problem
codes on your vehicle's computer that indicate malfunctioning systems.
If
you keep your car in its best running order and practice efficient
driving techniques, you'll realize better fuel economy and performance.
And that's just good, all around!
By Brandy Schaffels
Contributing Editor
Inspired by Goodwrench
automotive advice for women
