by Bonnie Conrad
In these days of ever increasing gasoline prices, automotive mileage has become more important than ever before. Whether you drive a gas-thrifty hybrid vehicle or the largest SUV, there are some practical methods you can use to squeeze maximum mileage out of your transportation. Implementing these easy yet surprisingly effective tips can easily save the average driver hundreds of dollars a month on his or her gasoline bills.
Tip #1 – Make the Change
Simply changing your car or truck’s oil on a regular basis can have a surprisingly large impact on gas mileage. A car or truck that is running at peak efficiency, with a clean engine, will get better mileage and last longer. A well maintained car or truck will also have a higher resale value, an extra bonus above those lower gasoline bills.
Tip #2 – Let the Air In
A surprising number of drivers today are running around on dangerously under-inflated tires, posing a safety hazard to themselves and others and wasting valuable fuel. Under-inflated tires are perhaps the number one reason for lower than expected mileage readings. In fact, tires that are under-inflated by five pounds could cause at least a two percent drop in mileage. This may not sound like much, but over the long run this simple change could save you hundreds of dollars. Properly inflated tires will also improve the handling and safety of the car. This will help the tires wear evenly as well.
Tip #3 – Get in Line
Speaking of tires, how they are aligned can also impact both fuel economy and safety. Improperly aligned tires will cause drag, thus increasing fuel consumption and lowering mileage. Tires should be aligned when they are first purchased, and the alignment should be checked again each time the tires are rotated. Speaking of tire rotation, keeping those tires rotated will help them wear evenly, and help to improve overall fuel economy as well.
Tip #4 – Get the Load Out
Simply removing unneeded items from the car or truck can have a significant impact on fuel economy. We all tend to accumulate unneeded items in our cars, trucks and SUVs; removing them can reduce the weight the vehicle carries, which in turn helps to increase fuel mileage and save money.
Tip #5 – Combine Those Trips
Combining trips and errands can save a great deal of fuel -- and money. Engines are at their peak of efficiency when they are warm, so combining trips will help to improve the efficiency and fuel economy of the engine. Combining trips can also mean fewer miles driven and less wear and tear on the vehicle.
Tip #6 – Drive with Care
Careful driving can help to save both gas and money. Avoiding jackrabbit starts and harsh stops and driving at a steady speed will help increase the fuel economy of any vehicle. In addition, using cruise control and overdrive gears can also help to keep the vehicle running at maximum efficiency, which can help reduce your use of expensive gasoline and diesel fuel.
It has never been more important than it is today to care for your car and enhance its mileage. No matter how much or how little you drive, everyone can use a little extra money in their pockets. Making a few simple changes to the way you drive and car for your vehicle can have a surprisingly large impact on your car’s efficiency, and your own personal bottom line.
Want to save even more? Consider carpooling.
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