Are you feeling the pressure of rising gas prices?
Does the idea of $5.00 a gallon (or more) of gasoline burn a big hole in your pocket?
In this article you will learn how to reduce your gas consumption by a third!
There are many ways to save fuel.
Here are a few that have worked for me to cut a third off my gas bill.
For starters, drive more slowly.
I have noticed a big increase in gas mileage when driving 60 to 70 miles per hour, instead of driving 75 to 80 miles per hour.
Vehicle mpg specs are determined by driving 55 miles per hour.
The next time you feel the need for speed, think about your wallet.
Coast whenever possible!
Do you drive up and down mountains?
When traffic permits, and if hills aren’t too steep, put your car in neutral while descending.
When the hill starts to level off, gently put your car back in gear.
Avoid rabbit outbursts.
Don’t be the first to run after a red light turns green.
When you’re stuck in a big traffic jam, you may want to turn off the engine.
Avoid unnecessary idling (we’ll all breathe easier).
Lighten the load!
Throw all that junk in your trunk.
Don’t overload your car.
Everyone wants to travel for free!
If you must travel with all your friends in your car, ask them to contribute to the gas.
Keep your tires a little more inflated!
By adding 2-3 PSI more than normal to each tire, you will reduce drag.
Use your air conditioner sparingly.
Keep your vehicle!
The elusive oxygen sensor.
Most drivers ignore the oxygen sensor, until the “Service Engine Soon” light comes on.
Depending on the year, make, and model of your vehicle, you may have 1 to 4 oxygen sensors.
Older vehicles may only have 1 sensor, while newer vehicles will have 2 or more sensors.
Check your vehicle’s service manual to determine how many sensors you have and the location of each sensor.
Oxygen sensors are fairly easy to replace yourself.
They are similar to spark plugs in appearance.
You will need a special socket wrench to replace these as they have a cable sticking out of the top.
Oxygen sensors can still work when nearly depleted, but they won’t be efficient.
If your vehicle has close to 100,000 miles, change the oxygen sensors.
I would recommend purchasing sensors from an auto parts store rather than auto dealers as auto parts stores are usually cheaper.
Another overlooked item is the air filter.
Even a partially clogged air filter will take away from your gas mileage.
Air filters are fairly inexpensive and easy to replace.
Throw a bottle of fuel injector cleaner in the tank every 15,000 miles.
Fuel Injector Cleaner will keep your injectors and fuel lines clean.
Change that oil!
Dirty oil will add unnecessary friction to your engine.
I change my oil every 2500 miles, which is once a month for me.
In summer switch to a heavier oil or use a synthetic blend.
Change those spark plugs!
Platinum plugs may claim to last 100,000 miles, but I’ve seen them fail at only 75,000 miles.
Spark plugs are relatively inexpensive and (depending on the vehicle) easy to replace.
If you’re not that handy or don’t like mechanics, read some auto repair books or make friends with a mechanic.
One last thing, it’s best to refuel early in the morning.
Gas tanks are cooler in the morning, giving you more concentrated fuel (more bang for your buck, so to speak).
Trust me, when you drive 600+ miles a week like I do, you’ll find ways to save gas.
I hope this article will save you money on gas.
If you find this article useful, please link to it!