Keeping your car’s air filter clean is an important part of fuel efficiency. “Your fuel mixture is made up of fuel and air and this mixture is controlled by your car’s computer,” said Bruce Baldwin, owner of Beavercreek Auto Service. “If your filter is clogged up, the mixture will be thrown off and will change what the computer reads, which will affect your gas mileage.”
2. Check your gas cap
By having a broken or ill-fitting gas cap, your gas could be evaporating right out of your tank. According to AAA, you should check your gas cap regularly to ensure it is tight and secure. This will help preserve the gas in your tank and will save you money at the pump.
3. Maintain proper tire pressure
Keeping your tires inflated to the proper manufacturer recommendation will help you save on gasoline. According to AAA, underinflated tires can cut your fuel economy by two percent per pound. “Underinflated tires create more friction and don’t roll as easy,” Baldwin said. “This causes your system to work harder and uses more gas.”
4. Avoid idling
You may not think you are using gas while you are idling, or running your car while it is in park, but according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency you can use half a gallon of fuel per hour, depending on your engine size and whether or not you have the air conditioner on. When your car is in park, turn off the engine.
5. Change your driving habits
Whether you like to slam on your breaks or zoom down the highway, making bad choices when you are behind the wheel will hurt your fuel effiency.
According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, these bad habits can “lower your gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town.” Make a conscience effort to slow down and give yourself more distance to react to driving conditions. “Driving habits can affect how much gas you use just as much as maintenance issues,” Baldwin said. “Come to a gradual stop and make slower starts. Pay attention to your speed limit. The faster you go the more gas you will use.”
No matter what sort of vehicle you drive, there are always ways to improve your fuel efficiency. Set up a time to talk to your mechanic about your car and see if there are any suggestions he/she may have to improve upon your car’s gas usage.
Jessica Garringer is a bargain hunter, DIYer and a couponer who loves to save money. You can reach her at JessicaGarringer@gmail.com. Get more money saving tips, ideas and projects at www.SaverSavvy.wordpress.com, www.Facebook.com/SaverSavvy or @SaverSavvy on Twitter.
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