With fuel prices skyrocketing and no end in sight, there's no better time than now to check out ways to save a little money on gas. So if you want some simple methods, just keep on reading. These tips are sure to help you keep your gas tank full and your wallet fat! Who knows? You may even be able to take that road trip you've been dying to go on...
Keep your vehicle in tip-top shape:
You will notice that your car uses a lot more gas when it isn't in tip-top condition. Cars require routine maintenance like oil changes and tire rotations in order to run at their highest level. If a vehicle isn't performing at its highest level it will use more gas than necessary. One of the main things that can have a negative impact on gas mileage is having a dirty air filter. Your car's air filter should be replaced every 15,000-25,000 miles to reduce the amount of gas being used. You can check the specific amount of miles that your air filter should be changed in your owner's manual. You won't have to worry about going broke because air filters are very inexpensive and can easily be replaced. Of course, it is also important to change your oil on a routine basis and check your tire pressure to save on gas.
Stop driving a car that sucks up gas:
We probably don't have to explain to you that the best way to save money on gas is to purchase a more fuel efficient car. Like most of us, you probably can't just buy a new car when you feel like it, but if you've been shopping for new cars you might consider a hybrid or another fuel efficient vehicle. For those of you who don't prefer the hybrid vehicles, many auto dealers are selling other types of vehicles that were made to get better gas mileage. Purchasing a new car or a newer used car will all depend on what kind of style you're interested in and how much gas you would like to save.
Start searching for bargains:
Don't start driving all over town to find the station that's selling the cheapest gas! Instead, just go online and search your area for the cheapest gas stations. If they are too far from your home, don't waste the gas going there and back just to save a couple cents a gallon - that's defeating the purpose! Look for the stations that are closest to home or "on the way" and fill up at the cheapest one. Some of the best places to save on gas are wholesale stores, such as Costco or Sam's Club. If you're a member at a wholesale store near your home, you should consider filling up your tank there - you may be able to save up to 10 cents a gallon.
Behave yourself when you drive:
The way you drive can have the biggest effect on your gas mileage. If you drive at a constant speed and accelerate slowly you will use less gas. You can also save by braking sooner and giving yourself a longer distance to slow down before you come to an immediate stop. At fueleconomy.com they explain: "You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon for gas." So slow down and set your cruise control!
Follow the simple rules of filling up your tank:
You should always use the gasoline that your car requires for the best performance. Using premium gasoline in a car that requires regular gasoline will not improve performance, nor will it save any gas. If you use regular in a car that requires premium you may save a couple cents at the pump, but your car's performance will decrease. Don't ignore the instructions at the fuel pump; avoid topping off your gas tank. Topping off can lead to overfilling and extra fuel being wasted. In addition, some gas stations have specific gas cards that you can use to save some money when you fill up there. As long as you remember to pay the credit card off each month, it is worth it to save a couple cents per gallon. Finally, don't forget to tighten your gas cap when you leave the station or else a lot of your gas will vaporize and you'll waste a good chunk of money.
Find alternate modes of transportation:
Fuel prices are way too high and if you can avoid driving, then you should. Try walking or riding a bike to nearby locations. If you need to go further, you should consider carpooling or riding the bus. You will be helping the environment while you save on gas and your hard-earned money. When you need to drive your car, always plan ahead of time and do all of your errands in one trip.
About the Author:
Paige Celina Bennett, a marketing consultant, is employed at Drive-Time, a used car dealer that specializes in providing auto loans to people who need financing.
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