As the price of gas tops the $4.00 mark, everyone is looking to get better gas mileage from their vehicles. There are a few simple ways you can make your present car run more efficiently or if you have the means, buy a new vehicle to meet the new requirements of a fuel efficient car. Even those that can afford the high spike in gas prices are looking for ways to get better gas mileage.
- Learn to Drive with More Efficiency
Driving above the speed limit is not only asking for a ticket, but it is costing you in gas as well. All cars reach their maximum fuel economy at a variety of levels, but you can assume that for every five miles you drive over the speed limit or over 60 mph that you are adding an additional $.20 to the price of gas. It is said that when driving over 60mph that the ability of your vehicle’s fuel efficiency will decrease at a rapid rate.
Getting rid of any excess weight in your car is also advised in order to get better gas mileage. When you carry around heavy loads in your vehicle it is said you may be reducing your miles per gallon by as much as 2%. If you are a mom that drives the kids to sporting events, be sure to take the equipment out of the trunk when the task is completed.
If your car has a large engine, idling can waste a lot of gas. You get 0 mph when your car is not moving, so be sure you shut it off. Many times we leave the car running in order to make a quick run into the store. You may meet someone you know and chat or the line may be longer than you had anticipated, so be sure you shut the engine off each time you exit your vehicle.
- Take Care of Your Car’s Engine
Keeping your car’s engine tuned up is another way you will get better gas mileage. If your car is working harder because of clogged filters, lack of oil or water it can make you lose as much as 4% in fuel economy. With today’s gas prices that can turn into big bucks in a short amount of time. Have your car tuned every three thousand miles and you are sure to get better gas mileage with the attention.
- Plan Your Route and Combine Errands
The fewer trips you make with your car the better your mileage. Instead of going to the bank one day, picking up the dry cleaning another and going grocery shopping on still another, instead combine your errands and plan the most efficient routes to get there. You will not only get better gas mileage, but you will also save wear and tear on your car which in turn allows it to run more efficiently.
These are just a few ways you can get better gas mileage from your car. You can make a difference in the mileage your car gives you if you pay just a little more attention to any bad habits you may have and keeping your car in top notch condition.
