Getting the best mileage out of your used car
With gas prices shooting through the roof, there’s no better time than now to explore different ways to save some money on gas. Just keep on reading if you want simple, cost-efficient ways to use less gas. These tips will keep your pockets happy and your gas tank full! They might even help you save a little extra money for that vacation you’ve been dreaming about.
Get routine check ups done:
When your car isn’t in the best running condition it tends to suck up a lot more gas! Regular tune-ups will ensure that your car is performing at its highest level and will help reduce gas usage. A dirty air filter can really have an effect on the performance and gas mileage of your vehicle, and should be changed according to the owner’s manual that came with your car. Typically, air filters are very inexpensive and a clean one can save you a lot on gas! Even getting routine oil changes and monitoring your car’s tire pressure can reduce fuel use and improve performance.
Buy a “sipper,” not a “slurper”:
If you want to save some money, there’s no better way than to buy a vehicle that gets great gas mileage. This may not be a possibility at the time, but it’s something to consider when you’re in the market for a vehicle. If you don’t like the look of hybrid vehicles there are many other fuel-efficient cars to choose from that will fit your style and won’t break you. It all depends on the amount you’re looking to save and what kind of car you’re interested in buying!
Look around for the cheapest prices:
You can search the web for stations that are selling the cheapest gas or talk to people who live near you about where they’re purchasing their gas. It is a waste of time and money to drive all over town looking for places that are selling cheap gas. You will lose more money searching for cheap gas stations than you would filling up at one that is nearby. Find out which gas stations are nearest to you and which ones are charging the least for gas. If you have a membership to a wholesale store like Costco or Sam’s Club, you should plan on filling your tank there if it near your home. Gas prices can be up to $0.10 cents less at those places!
Behave yourself when you drive:
The way you drive can have the biggest effect on your gas mileage. If you drive at a constant speed and accelerate slowly you will use less gas. You can also save by braking sooner and giving yourself a longer distance to slow down before you come to an immediate stop. At fueleconomy.com they explain: “You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon for gas.” So slow down and set your cruise control!
Follow the simple rules of filling up your tank:
You should always use the gasoline that your car requires for the best performance. Using premium gasoline in a car that requires regular gasoline will not improve performance, nor will it save any gas. If you use regular in a car that requires premium you may save a couple cents at the pump, but your car’s performance will decrease. Don’t ignore the instructions at the fuel pump; avoid topping off your gas tank. Topping off can lead to overfilling and extra fuel being wasted. In addition, some gas stations have specific gas cards that you can use to save some money when you fill up there. As long as you remember to pay the credit card off each month, it is worth it to save a couple cents per gallon. Finally, don’t forget to tighten your gas cap when you leave the station or else a lot of your gas will vaporize and you’ll waste a good chunk of money.
Get out that old bike from the garage:
When it comes down to it, the best solution to getting better gas mileage is to avoid driving. If you live a short distance from places that you frequent, try riding a bike or walking. If you need to get somewhere that is further away, ride the city bus. If you have to drive a car, carpool with someone who lives nearby. But if at all possible, just don’t drive!
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