So, I just realized our gas tank needs filled up before we skip town for the weekend and low and behold the price of gas has skyrocketed. Go figure.
With Memorial Day around the corner, people will be hitting the road for summer travel. A recent survey by Jiffy Lube International reveals 88% of those surveyed plan on taking a summer vacation this year – up 4% from 2008. 71% of those surveyed also said they’d be jumping in the family car for their trip.
Gas prices continue to inch up, with the average national price per gallon for regular at $2.334 – up from $2.058* just one month ago. Below, I’ve included tips from the car-care experts at Jiffy Lube, that can help increase fuel efficiency to save vacationers a few bucks – and keep their vehicle road-ready.
SAVE MONEY AT THE PUMP – and in the Long Run with Vehicle Maintenance
We can shave off dollars and cents every day by doing little things. The tips below from the car-care experts at Jiffy Lube will not only help keep your vehicle in top shape – helping to avoid potentially costly breakdowns in the future – and put a few dollars back in your pocket.
· Tires: Tires can be gas bandits as under-inflated tires create extra friction where the rubber meets the road. Incorrectly inflated tires also wear unevenly, which can impact your vehicle’s traction on the road and possibly lead to a dangerous blowout. According to the Federal Government+, you can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3% by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. You can find your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure information in the vehicle owner’s manual or often on a decal typically in the vehicle’s door jamb or in the vehicle owner’s manual.
· Oil Grade: Motor oil lubricates the engine, keeping it cool and reducing friction between moving parts. As the motor oil circulates, it also cleans away harmful dirt and contaminants. When motor oil gets too dirty, it loses some of its lubrication and absorption abilities. According to the Federal Government, using your vehicle owner’s manual recommended grade oil can improve your gas mileage up to 2% — savings which can add up over time! Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for the correct grade of motor oil for your vehicle.
· Lighten Your Load: Extra weight means more strain on your vehicle and more fuel burn. According to the Federal Government, vehicle drag can decrease your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by 2%. Leave unnecessary items at home before hitting the road, but keep the essentials like a vehicle emergency kit.
· Avoid Aggressive Driving: According to the Federal Government, rapid acceleration/braking can lower your gas mileage up to 5% around town.
· Carpooling: Taking advantage of carpools could drastically reduce your gas usage. Not only will you save a few bucks, but you’ll get to spend more time with friends and family!
· Deals & Coupons: Keep an eye out for deals and coupons in your area. Visit www.JiffyLube.com for coupons and special offers.
* http://www.fuelgaugereport.com/
+ http://fueleconomy.gov/feg/drive.shtml
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