Simple Ways You Can Improve Your Gas Mileage

May 23rd, 2008 by Shenron

One of the biggest factors that impacts our driving is the cost of fuel. The price of fuel has risen steadily over the years, but in the past few years as risen at a rate that most people find unacceptable. Many people have stopped non-required driving altogether, while others have kept their driving habits the same and had to trim their budgets in other areas. While not solving the problem completely, there are some simple ways to increase your car’s gas mileage.

Whether you are driving on the highway or in the city, always increase your speed gradually. Any sudden increase in acceloration whether you are passing another car on the freeway or just proceeding through an intersection after the light turns green can lower your gas mileage.

Proper inflation of your tires can also help preserve your maximum fuel efficiency. Lesser inflated tires can reduce your gas mileage by as much as 5%.

Keeping your vehicle properly maintained can also improve your gas mileage. Regular oil changes, along with the changing of worn out parts like belts and hoses can go a long ways in making your vehicle as efficient as can be. Regular tune ups when needed can also maximize your car’s fuel efficiency.

Emptying out your trunk on a regular basis can also contribute to a car that gets better gas mileage. The heavier our automobiles are, the more fuel is needed to move them around. Removing excess and unneeded items from the trunk, backseat, or other storage areas makes your vehicle lighter and easier to power down the road.

Air conditioning is a sometimes necessary option when it comes to vehicle operation, depending on the climate you live in. Running the air conditioning unit on your car will decrease its fuel efficiency. However, operating your vehicle with the windows rolled down will also cause your gas mileage to go down. So, what should you do when the heat becomes unbearable? It is best to have the windows rolled down when driving at slower speeds and to have the windows up and the air conditioner on when driving at faster speeds. The gas mileage you lose because of the drag caused by open windows is more than the gas mileage you lose from operating the air conditioner.

While the price of fuel seems ridiculously high, there are small things you can do to increase your fuel efficiency. Every little bit helps in times like these and the money you save can help pay for your next trip out of town.

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