Road transportation is the most common means of getting from point A to point B in the U.S. So, it’s safe to say we’d all like to spend a little less on gas. With oil prices rising, paying for gas is the most expensive part of having a car. While electric cars and alternative fuels are becoming more mainstream in the manufacturing and science worlds, most of the country still hasn’t made the switch. For those who want to save the ozone layer, and save some layers inside their wallets, take advantage of these tips.
Save Fuel Like a Pro
1. Manage Your Speed
Braking and accelerating do a number on your fuel economy. By braking hard and often, you are wasting all the energy your car just created getting up to speed. Coasting to a stop uses up every bit of this energy.
2. Clean Out Your Car
Excess weight in your car will quite literally weigh your car down. Those unnecessary books and boxes will create more drag and your engine will use more gas to propel you forward.
3. Set Your Cruise Control
Cruise control is more than just a modern convenience that lets you rest your foot. By maintaining a constant speed, your vehicle will be able to use the same fuel patterns and get into a rhythm. When you change speeds, your vehicle uses more fuel as it adjusts to the new rate of powering the engine.
4. Inflate Your Tires
Manufacturers have recommended tire pressures for a reason. Among other drawbacks, under-inflated tires have an increased rolling resistance and require more fuel to turn. Under-inflated tires can reduce gas mileage by 0.2% for every 1 psi below proper pressure. The correct tire pressure for your car is typically located on a sticker on the driver’s doorjamb.
5. Avoid Long Idle Times
Idling uses unnecessary gas because it keeps your engine running, yet your car remains still. This time can include stopping at long stoplights, waiting at a Drive-Thru, and warming up your car in the winter. While not all instances are avoidable, this fact is important to keep in mind.
6. Drive Slower
As your speed increases, your car’s aerodynamic coefficient decreases. Fuel economy for most cars decreases rapidly after 50 mph.
7. Plan More Efficient Trips
This one’s pretty obvious, but try to only use your vehicle when you have multiple things to do. For example, don’t make a one-off trip just for a gallon of milk. Try to head to the grocery store on your way home from work, or run other errands all at once to save yourself a trip and some gas.
8. Avoid Driving with Your Windows Down
Cars are designed, for the most part, to be as aerodynamic as possible. But rolling your windows down breaks the stream of air flowing over your car, which creates additional drag and decreases fuel economy.
9. Use Your A/C Thoughtfully
Your car’s air conditioner forces the engine to work harder to power the cold air compressor, which also means it uses more gas. If you can, go without A/C to save a few MPGs.
10. Have Your Vehicle Serviced Regularly
Services like oil changes, fuel filter replacements, and tire rotations, among other regular maintenance services, keep your car in tip-top shape. Consistent checks will keep every component of your car in the best working order, which maximizes efficiency.
Save More Fuel by Visiting Kennedy Transmission
By keeping your vehicle up to date on regular maintenance checks and services, it will be in optimal condition all year long. You’ll not only see MPG savings, but a general improvement in performance. Contact your nearest Kennedy Transmissions service center and let our trained professionals help you squeeze every mile out of your gas tank.
