Use These Clever Tricks To Boost Your Car’s MPG
(UnitedReader.com) – In case no one has noticed, gas prices are at all-time highs. While a couple of extra dollars may not seem like much, they add up quickly when you’re filling your car’s tank. Right now, saving gas is more important than ever as Americans learn how to live with extreme prices on just about everything. Here are some ways to help keep you from going to the pump more than you need to.
Routine Maintenance
You depend on your vehicle to get from point A to point B. But did you know that something as simple as a dirty air filter can actually decrease your fuel mileage? That’s right, so be sure to stay on top of regular maintenance for your vehicle such as oil and filter changes, air and cabin filter changes, spark plugs, and wires.
Check Tire Pressure
It may not seem like a big deal to have tires that are a little bit lower than normal, but it can impact your vehicle in a few different ways. For instance, not only will low tires increase the amount of fuel your car uses, but it will also cause the tread on your tires to wear down faster. Be sure to look in your owner’s manual or the sides of your tires to find their correct pressure.
Spring Cleaning
There are some items you need to keep in your vehicle in case of emergencies such as extra clothes and blankets in the wintertime or a first-aid kit. However, unnecessary items can reduce your fuel economy, which translates to more visits to the pump and more damage to your finances. Be sure to clean everything out of your car that doesn’t need to be in there. Even trash can add up, and it doesn’t take much to harm your gas mileage.
If you have external items that reduce your car’s aerodynamics such as cargo boxes, roof racks, or bike racks that you’re not using, take them off. These items can drastically decrease your fuel mileage and increase fuel consumption as they add drag and resistance to your vehicle.
Watch Your Speed
The US Department of Energy says that after you reach 50 mph, your vehicle starts losing fuel efficiency. It only gets worse the faster you travel. Be sure to stick to the speed limit and use cruise control whenever possible. Also, be sure to avoid quick accelerations and rapid braking as both also contribute to fuel consumption.
Limit Idling
Many newer vehicles have a feature that powers down the engine when the vehicle comes to a complete stop. This “start-stop” feature is designed to conserve fuel by putting the engine on pause instead of allowing it to idle. Once the driver releases the brake, the engine automatically restarts, allowing the car to continue forward. If you’re safely parked and waiting for someone, consider shutting off your car while you wait. It’ll save you in the long run.
With gas prices and everything else costing more than ever, it’s best for Americans to do everything they can to save money. Hopefully, these tips will help you stay away from the gas station as much as possible and maybe keep some extra money in your pocket.
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