Three tips to improve gas mileage
Cars cost. From maintenance to fuel, insurance to state registration, an automobile is a guaranteed bill for as long as it is owned.
However, there are ways to optimize use. and they start with getting better gas mileage. Better gas mileage not only lengthens the life of your car, but it also saves money with less frequent trips to the pump, which also saves time.
For those that are on a budget, there are three quick steps one can take that will improve gas mileage and, additionally, car performance. All three can be done, without spending money, and have proven results in car performance on fuel efficiency.
Tip #1
Properly inflate tires to the recommended tire pressure in the owner’s manual. Of course, if you do not have the owner’s manual, you can go online, or call a local (brand) car dealer. Often times, tire pressure specs are located on the inside driver’s door panel, with either a yellow or neon labeling. According to the Department of Energy (DOE), drivers can improve their gas mileage around 5 percent.
But properly inflating your car’s tires is most evident in performance. Ever slip around a turn or notice a change in braking distance? This is commonly attributed to improperly or under-inflated tires. You can go to an auto-parts warehouse or your mechanic, and they will inflate your tires for free.
Tip #2
Rid your car of the excess weight. A car jack, spare tire, car fluids (brake and motor oil, windshield wiper fluid, jumper cables, flash light, and possibly extra gas) are the only necessities that you need in your car. The gallon of drinking water, unnecessary tool sets, golf clubs and sporting equipment are excess weight.
According to the DOE, there is a 2 percent reduction in fuel efficiency for every 100 pounds of weight in an automobile. The excess weight can also compromise you car’s turning radius if weight isn’t properly stored, and sways back in forth in the vehicle during turns. This can damage you vehicle or whatever is being transported.
Tip#3
Ease off the gas pedal. The quick fire acceleration, speeding, redundant ‘keeping ahead of the pack’, and racing can all reduce the amount of miles per gallon that your car gets. This can lower your gas mileage by as much as 33 percent according to DOE estimates. This would increase the number of trips to the pump by 50 percent and cost $1,000s annually in fuel and maintenance costs.
Not to mention the costs, fines, and fees of speeding tickets. The average speeding ticket has risen by almost 20 percent nationally in the last decade according to the Department of Highway Safety, as many states (think California) are closer to bankruptcy. The added revenue from your driving infractions, and increased sales-tax at the pump, help them cover the loss.
Now that you have found ways to make your car more fuel efficient, you can see as much as 50 percent increase if you eliminate all of these driving habits. You can also extend the life of your vehicle and avoid costly maintenance.
—Javier Johnson
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