Is Saving Fuel Important to You?
When it comes to fuel prices, instability seems to be the watchword. Like me you’ve probably noticed how world affairs, or some bad weather, or the whims of speculators will drive the price of fuel up 30% only to have it slide back to 15% - leaving us grateful for a “moderate” but permanent increase.
While we can’t control the price of fuel, we can take steps to reduce fuel consumption, increase efficiency and maximize our fuel budget. I’ve put together a few proven tips that can add up to make a big difference in your fuel costs:
Idle Away: If you’re going to be sitting for extended periods (beyond 60 seconds), it is wise to shut the engine off and restart it when you’re ready to go.
Reduce Weight: Vehicle manufactures work hard to reduce vehicle weight which is the least expensive way to improve fuel mileage. Studies confirm that reducing vehicle weight by 100 pounds can improve fuel mileage by as much as two percent. Keep the spare tire but kill the clutter.
Click here to see the biggest gas saving tips
Observe Speed Limit: The Department of Energy says that fuel mileage drops off significantly at speeds above 60 to 65 mph. Sustained high speeds can increase fuel consumption up to 23% or as much as 84 cents per gallon.
Constant Speed: Driving at a distance from other vehicles on the road is not only a lot safer, it’s also a way to improve fuel mileage. This practice reduces fuel consumption and maximizes brake life. Additionally, engineers have discovered that using cruise control is the best way to maintain constant speeds.
Use Overdrive: The high gear reduces engine RPM thus saving fuel.
Air Conditioning: As a rule it is more fuel efficient to open the windows at low speed and use the air conditioning at highway speeds. Shutting the AC off at idle can save between one and two cents per minute of operation.
Tire Pressure: Tires must be inflated properly. Under inflation increases rolling resistance which in turn reduces mileage. Studies have shown that a tire underinflated by 2% will increase fuel consumption by 1%. Pay attention to the tire inflation information on the tag inside the driver’s door of your vehicle. Stop by anytime for an air pressure adjustment or to pick up a free tire pressure gauge.
