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How to Improve Your Gas Mileage

Every year, gas prices seem to reach record highs. Of course, there are many ways to avoid high fuel costs such as carpooling, and public transportation. However, for many workers this is not feasible. Purchasing a hybrid is also an option, but the initial high sticker cost is out of reach for many drivers.

However, the future of fuel holds many exciting possibilities. Some of these possibilities include the widened use of battery power, as well as hydrogen fuel based vehicles. In the meantime, gas is still the most prevalent fuel. Below is a list of tips and suggestions for the average driver to help save money by increasing fuel efficiency.

Tire pressure

To decrease your fuel consumption, keep your tires at their optimal pressure. This will not only save you money on gas, but will also give your car a smoother, safer ride. Check your tires periodically and re-fill them when needed. It is also important for each vehicle to carry a tire gauge for quick pressure checks. Of course, some styles of tires allow for better traction and therefore increase your gas mileage. If you really want to save money on gas, consider filling your tires with nitrogen. This process is performed at major tire dealers. The use of nitrogen can help to improve gas mileage by up to fifteen percent.

Slow down!

The faster your drive, the more fuel you use. Try leaving a few minutes earlier for work or school so that you can drive at a normal pace. When drivers try to speed up from a complete stop, fuel is also wasted. Allow your car to increase speed at a normal rate without revving the engine. Finally, when driving on a highway use cruise control as often as possible. Every five miles per hour you drive over 55, you are loosing as much as ten percent of your gas mileage. It is also good to use air conditioning when driving on a highway, because your car uses more energy to accelerate when the windows are down.

Fuel additives

There are many different fuel additives available for your vehicle. Usually added to the gas tank, these additives come in a variety of forms and styles. Some additives even report gas mileage increases by up to 25 percent. This increase is because the additive cleans out harmful deposits, which contribute to poor gas mileage.

Clean up!

Many drivers on the road today simply have too much weight in their car. Trunks, much like garages at home, seem to fill to the point that it is even hard to close the lid. Take the time to make sure you are driving with as little in the car as possible. A heavy trunk is like constantly having passengers in your vehicle. The lighter your load, the better your gas mileage.

Try coasting

Instead of constantly braking, try coasting. This skill requires some practice, but will ultimately help to improve your vehicle’s gas consumption. Coasting requires less work from the engine. It is especially beneficial in the city where more fuel is used.

Check your air filter

A dirty air filter can significantly decrease your vehicle’s gas mileage. Always replace your air filter according to manufacture standards. A dirty air filter can decrease your gas mileage by as much as ten percent.

The right oil for your car

Just as there are many different fuel additives available, there are also many different kinds of engine oil. Some oils are made for high performance vehicles, while some are designed for high mileage vehicles. It is extremely important that you change your engine oil every 3,000 miles and use the proper replacement oil grade. Before changing your oil, consult with your vehicle’s manufacturer for the recommended oil grade. Some motor oil brands even mention that they are energy conserving right on the container. These oils conserve energy by reducing the amount of friction, caused by build-ups in the engine.