Saving
gasoline isn’t that hard to do even with the most gas guzzling vehicle. No, you
don’t even have to purchase aftermarket parts to achieve higher gas mileage –
not a bad idea, however – as there are some simple ways for you to save on gas.
Let’s take a look at some of the more effective steps you can take to squeeze
out more fuel.
Thankfully,
gas prices have retreated from their historic high levels. Paying more than $3
per gallon was a pinch no one wanted and few had expected. In many areas prices
have dropped well over $1 per gallon with some people now paying much less than
$2 per gallon. Still, saving fuel should be something we do habitually whether
gas is $1 per gallon or $5 per gallon.
Inflate
Your Tires – How
often do you check your car’s tires? If you fill up your car weekly, then once
per week is sufficient. Unfortunately, many motorists check their tires once or
twice per year! Under inflated tires, besides being a safety hazard, can cost
you up to ten percent of your fuel economy.
Get a
Tune Up – Yes, I
know. You don’t have to tune up your
car as often as in days gone by. Your spark plugs may last for sixty
thousand miles or more but your air filter should be changed annually and your
timing should be checked too. You can lose another five to ten percent fuel
economy with a poorly performing engine. When you replace your sparks, replace
your spark plug wires too as poor wiring can effect engine performance too.
Combine
Trips – If you have
errands to run, do them together instead of dividing them up. You will save on
gas if you start and finish your work together instead of returning home and
going back out again.
Watch
Your Speed – Yes,
the interstate says you can go 75mph, but at 65mph your wanna-go-fast BMW will eat up less
gas. If you can get to where you are going in a reasonable amount of time -- at
a reduced speed -- why not go slower to lessen fuel consumption?
Install
Performance Parts –
You read it right. By replacing gas guzzling stock Toyota parts
with efficiently operating performance parts your car will get more power while
your engine sips less gas. Performance parts including chips, exhausts, air
filters, and cold air intakes are a great way for you to bump up fuel
performance.
You can
also save on gasoline by not letting your car warm up in the morning and by not
driving with a heavy foot. I am certain you can think of other ways to save on
fuel [change your oil and oil filter too]; find what works best for you and
before you know it you will be passing up the pump more often and keeping your
hard earned cash in your wallet.