Not all drivers are ready to buy a more fuel-efficient car but there are a number of ways to save money, whatever vehicle you drive. Here are three easy to remember fuel saving tips.
Lighten Up
Weight is one of fuel economy's main adversaries, so removing unnecessary items or passengers from your vehicle can equate to real fuel savings.
Keep in mind that roof top carriers, bike and ski racks don't do your cars fuel economy any favors, even when they are empty.
Watch Speed and Acceleration
No matter what kind of car you drive, you can save fuel immediately by going easy on the accelerator. Quick starts and full-throttle acceleration can boost fuel consumption. Saving fuel is all a matter of degree – light acceleration can save more than medium acceleration and full-throttle jack-rabbit starts.
Also, remember that top speed plays a part. Each car reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed; however, according to the U.S. Department of Energy, gas mileage usually decreases quickly at speeds above 60 mph. For each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph, it is like paying 5%-30% more per gallon for gas.
Inflate Your Chances at Prevention
Keeping your car tires inflated properly is critical to fuel efficient driving. Underinflated tires can lower the gas mileage a vehicle even if they are off by just a single psi.
Proper tire inflation can improve mileage up to 3.3% or $0.11 per gallon according to the United States Department of Energy. Check your owner's manual or the placard in the vehicle's doorjamb for the proper inflation pressure. If your car's tire pressure monitoring light is on or you need assistance, visit a local tire store to have an expert check your tires and fill them to the correct pressure.
Don't just stop with checking your tires because keeping your engine running efficiently is just as essential to save gas. Even if your car seems to be running well, that perplexing check engine light could represent a dead oxygen sensor or some other emissions control problem that can cause the vehicle to waste several miles per gallon.
Limiting your cars weight, maintaining posted speeds, keeping your tires properly inflated and maintaining your engine can all help impact savings on gas. It can also be great for the environment. One gallon of gas produces 19.4 pounds of CO2, so by following these three easy tips it can keep money in your wallet and CO2 out of the air we breathe.
If you have any questions about any of these tips, stop in to speak to the experts at any Belle Tire location.
