With rising fuel prices and growing environmental concerns, more important than ever is finding ways to improve fuel efficiency. In this month’s blog post, we review ten ways you can get the most out of every gallon of gas in your vehicle.
- Maintain Your Vehicle Regularly
Regular maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency. Ensure your engine is properly tuned and replace air filters as needed. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, burning less fuel. Check with your owner’s manual on the proper grade of motor oil as well to ensure improved gas mileage.
- Check Tire Pressure
Under-inflated tires can increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and consume more fuel. Check your tire pressure monthly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level.
- Drive Smoothly
Drive smoothly, anticipate traffic conditions, and avoid sudden stops and starts to save fuel. Avoid aggressive driving such as rapid acceleration after stops, or hard braking in traffic.
- Reduce Weight and Drag
Extra weight in your vehicle requires more energy to move. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk and back seat. Additionally, roof racks and carriers can create aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel efficiency.
- Use Cruise Control
Using cruise control on highways helps maintain a constant speed, which can improve fuel efficiency.
- Avoid Excessive Idling
Idling consumes fuel without moving your vehicle. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off your engine.
- Plan Your Trips
Combine errands into one trip to avoid unnecessary driving. Short trips from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a longer multi-stop trip covering the same distance.
- Monitor Your Speed
Fuel efficiency decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. Stick to the speed limit and use overdrive gears to reduce engine speed and save fuel.
- Use Air Conditioning Wisely
Air conditioning can reduce fuel efficiency, especially at lower speeds. Use it sparingly and consider using the vehicle’s ventilation system instead. At higher speeds, using the AC is more efficient than driving with the windows down, which can create drag.
- Choose the Right Fuel
Using the correct octane level recommended for your vehicle can prevent engine knocking and improve performance. Higher octane fuel is not necessarily better unless your vehicle specifically requires it.
By following these tips, you can improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, save money on gas, and reduce your environmental impact. If you would like to have your vehicle inspected for any concerns that may be hindering your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, contact the service professionals at Shade Tree Garage to schedule an appointment.
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