Fuel is a major expense for most automobile owners. Fortunately, consumers who are concerned about how to save money on gas have lots of options.
How to Save Money on Gas: Driving Habits
Your driving habits can have a big impact on your fuel usage. Following these simple tips will help you keep some of your hard-earned cash in your wallet.
- Accelerating and Stopping: Taking off from a stop sign or traffic light like you are competing in a high-speed race can be detrimental when it comes to fuel savings. In fact, numerous studies have shown that gradual acceleration and stopping more slowly can increase your fuel efficiency by up to 35%, depending on the type of vehicle you drive.
- Use the Cruise: You can improve your fuel efficiency significantly by using the cruise control feature on your vehicle when traveling on the highway. Cruise control can help you maintain a consistent speed, increasing your gas mileage by up to 14%.
- Avoid Idling: Most newer models of vehicles do not require that you warm them up – even during colder weather. Additionally, letting your car idle while you wait for a train, at the drive-thru window of your favorite restaurant, or for the kids to get out of school can cost you. If you plan to be stopped for more than a minute, turn off the engine.
Proper Vehicle Maintenance to Save Money on Gas
Following the proper vehicle maintenance procedures can help to reduce fuel costs.
- Tires: Underinflated tires not only increase fuel usage, but they can affect handling, braking and tread life as well. However, overinflated tires do not help your vehicle get better gas mileage and can actually be dangerous. Always inflate your tires in accordance with manufacturer recommendations.
- Air Filters: By simply cleaning your air filters, you can increase your gas mileage by as much as 7%. Be certain to maintain your filters regularly for optimal results, especially if you live in a dusty area.
- Engine Tune-up: A properly tuned engine will bring better fuel efficiency.
- Motor Oil: Check your vehicle’s owner’s manual and be certain to always use the correct motor oil. Using the wrong oil can cause your engine to work harder, reducing your gas mileage.
How to Save Money on Gas by Planning Ahead
When it comes to saving money on fuel, planning ahead is essential.
- Pay with Cash: Not only can the interest from credit cards add up over time, but some gas stations actually charge a fee if you pay with credit in order to offset the fees from the credit card companies. Pay with cash whenever you can and you can save a little extra change at the pump.
- Find the Cheapest Gas in Your Area: Don’t wait until your tank is almost empty and you have to fuel up at the nearest station. Plan ahead and use apps to help you find the lowest gas prices near you.
- Route: Evaluate the route you drive and remember that the shortest route isn’t always the most efficient. Look for direct routes that don’t include a lot of stop and go traffic, stop signs or traffic lights for best results.
Find out more about how you can keep some extra cash in your wallet by contacting Fast Access Finance today.