How to Save on Gas Mileage A List Compiled Through Experience

Owning a car is expensive. The monthly payments, auto insurance, and maintenance - will consume a good amount of your hard earned money. The most costly and mandatory expense is gasoline. Every year gas prices rise, and unfortunately, it doesn't seem as if it will change anytime soon. When I was younger ( I won't disclose how young) I looked at the prices of gas, and I specifically notice a zero on the left of the decimal. Yes, when I was younger (I am old), a gallon of gas was less than a dollar. As of two days ago, when I filled up my tank, it was $3.49 a gallon.

So I have compiled some tips on how to be a money-conscious vehicle owner that I would like to pass along to you. Because, who in the world wants to spend more money, on gas, then they have to, right? There are so many ways you can save on gas consumption. I will break it up into three categories and you can choose to start off slow and select only the ones you want or implement all. Hopefully, it's the latter.

Be A Better Driver

Specifically, be a more conscientious driver. Being more aware and cautious about the way you drive will benefit everyone. You’re probably an amazing driver. But you can enhance your driving by creating safer roads and cutting fuel consumption.

Vroom, Vroom, Less

I love the sound of my car revving up just like the next guy, but unfortunately, when you press hard on the gas pedals, it burns your gas (and emission) unnecessarily. Your car might go 0 to 60 in 3.5 seconds, but when would you need to? Save your inner NASCAR abilities for a real race track, and just drive safely on the road.

Gradual Stops and Start

Speaking of a foot on the pedal, you can cut on fuel consumption by gradually starting and stopping. Gently foot placement on the pedals will allow for a more natural process. Abrupt stops and starts will endure more power, consequently, requiring more resources to fuel the action.

Please Don’t Speed

It should go without saying that speeding is dangerous and can earn you traffic tickets for hundreds of dollars. You don't have to be a seasoned driver to know this. But I bet you didn't know if you drove a consistent 65MPG (speed limit) over a consistent 75MPG (10 miles over the speed limit), you cut fuel usage up to 20%? That means, if you are spending $50 to fill up your tank, you can save $10 every time you drive the speed limit.

Use Cruise Control

If your commutes include long drives on the highway try using the cruise control feature. It will help reduce the need to press on the gas or brakes, therefore, saving fuel. It will also keep you going at a gas efficient speed.

Take Care of Your Car

Proper maintenance and regular servicing will help maximize the life of your vehicle as well as save on gas. When your car is running in the best condition, it requires less effort to make it work. Gasoline is the sacrifice of a poorly maintained vehicle. Here are some tips to help you take care of your car so you can save money on gas.

Check Your Tires

Driving with low tire pressure can be dangerous. It can cause accidents, as well as hinder your driving. When it comes to gas efficiency, low tire pressure requires your car to use more force, thus more gas, to make it go. The recommended tire pressure is listed on the tires. If it's not there, Google it.

Regularly Scheduled Maintenance

I like regularmaintenance service appointments just as I like annual visits to the dentist. No bueno. However, what brings me more pain is purchasing more gas than I need to. You can avoid this by getting an oil change in a timely manner, be sure other fluids in your car are sufficient, and take the suggestions of your friendly mechanic.

Other Ways You Can Help with Fuel Efficiency

Shop around. There is this street that has three gas stations on a four-way intersection, and for some reason, the line for the gas station that sells the most expensive gas is always the longest. Perhaps its because it is the “elite” of the gas companies and people associated with “better” gas. Then I talked to someone that works for a company that wholesales gasoline to commercial companies, and guess what? There’s no such thing as “better” gas with big commercial companies. You can probably raise an eyebrow if you pass by one of those dingy gas stations that look sketch but if they have been there for a while, then their gas must be fueling someone’s car. Don’t believe me, read here for more info. Shop around. Here in Southern California, club members can usually save money when you purchase gas from places like Costco or Sam’s club.

Lighten Your Load

For about seven months I stored my son's stroller in my trunk. You know, for those "just in case" moments. And a little because it was too heavy to haul back and forth to my apartment (raise your hand if you have a BOB jogger stroller). But for every 100 lbs you load, it consumes up to 2% more. During those seven months, I used it, maybe a handful of times.

Use Your Car Less

If you are fortunate enough to live in a place where you have plenty of entertainment and shopping venues nearby - grocery store and restaurants - opt to walk or ride your bike there. If you don't, then try fashioning a carpool schedule with your neighbors and co-workers. Any of these options can benefit the environment as well.

Although the goal is to save gas, the means leading to it can provide a lot more. By following any of these tips, you are helping to create safer roads, a cleaner environment, and save money in the process.