With gas prices on the rise, I’ve been looking for ways to save money at the gas pump. The most logical way is just not to drive but that isn’t practical for most people. Of course cutting back on driving by planning trips out before hand can save some cash. For instance, plan several errands that are in the same general location all in one trip rather than making several trips during the week.
I read an article last night in Reader’s Digest that brought up some good points. The following are tips to get more out of a tank of gas.
PUMP IT UP underinflated tires make enginees work harder. Adjust pressure regularly, especially during cold weather, to increase fuel efficiency.
KEEP IT SMOOTH Each time you stop and start in traffic, your engine uses more fuel. Avoid sharp stops and starts.
DON’T BE IDLE If you are going to wait more than three minutes, turn off the engine. Idling wastes fuel and boosts CO2 Emissions.
DON’T GET REVVED UP Today’s engines are mean to run efficiently at ignition. Race-style revving is wasteful
SKIP THE WARM-UP… Most cars don’t need one. Still, drive gently until the engine hits its normal temperature.
…BUT STAY WARM A cold engine takes longer to reach that tempeature, so in winter, park indoors when possible or consider a block heater for the motor.
CUT THE CLUTTER An empty trunk means less work for your engine
CLOSE WINDOWS AC hurts fuel effiency; Open windows increase drag. Best bet: Keep AC low or crack windows
STICK TO THE SPEED LIMIT Driving at 60 mph uses 9 percent less gas than driving at 70 mph. Going 50 mph can save up to 15 percent.
SHIFT TO A MANUAL OR HYBRID Manual transmissions are more fuel efficient than automatics. You could also try a hybrid such as a Toyota Prius, Honda Insight or Ford Escape. All have a CVT transmission, which works like an automatic but uses less gas.