With vacation season upon us and gas prices rising faster than
an oil tycoon can say, “price-gouging,” it’s
no wonder families are looking for ways to conserve. Here are some
tips to consider the next time you’re paying at the pump:
1. Go Green
You can save the world (or part of its atmosphere at least) and
save lots of money in the short and long run by investing in
a gas-electric hybrid vehicle. According to the EPA, a hybrid
vehicle, like the Toyota Prius, will save you $500 per year in
fuel costs alone (compared to the most fuel-efficient non-hybrid
car in its class), and that’s not even counting the money
you’ll save in maintenance costs, which—by some estimates—put
your savings closer to $1,000 every year. The uber-hip and handy
might also consider biodiesel cars, which can run even cleaner
and cost even less. If you’re simply not in the market
for something green, then choose the most fuel efficient vehicle
in your household when you go road tripping. Bonus: Compacts
make parking easier too.
2. Un-Junk Your Trunk
More weight means less fuel economy. Lose the sports equipment
and whatnot before you hit the road. Roof racks and storage bins
also create drag, shaving down the number of miles you’ll
get out of each gallon. If you’re not going to use it,
lose it.
3. Tune-In and Tune-Up
Maintain your car well to get the best performance possible at
the lowest possible price. Regular oil changes, tune-ups, air
filter replacements and other services help maximize fuel efficiency.
A clean air filter can boost your vehicle’s gas mileage
by as much as 10%, and it will protect your engine from potentially
expensive damage too!
4. Stay Pumped
Check your tire pressure. Keeping your tires properly inflated
improves your gas mileage by around 3% while under-inflated tires
will cost you. Remember when that didn’t seem like much?
Of course, with prices at the pump climbing sky-high, that 3%
can add up all too quickly these days.
5. Pace Yourself
Driving with a lead foot and braking abruptly is not only hard
on your passengers’ poor necks, but it hurts your fuel
economy too. Keep the ride smooth, accelerating and stopping
gradually (and as little as possible), and you’ll go further
on fewer dollars. Bonus: You won’t look like that guy,
racing to be first to the red light.
