I am sure you have all noticed that the price of gas is on the rise. I am scared to think about how much it will rise in the coming weeks. We had a discussion on facebook a few days ago and gas prices ranged from $3.19 to $3.99 per gallon around the country. Here are some tips on how to keep your vehicle fuel efficient.
Maintenance
Make sure you keep up on the maintenance of your vehicle. Get regular oil changes and change the air filter. Also make sure that your tires are inflated correctly.
Eliminate excess cargo. Carrying a heavy load will decrease the gas mileage.
Plan
Plan your errands to be more efficient. Don’t drive to the store for one item. Plot out your course to allow for fewer stops. I only go to town one time a week. I think about what order I pass stores in so I don’t back track.
Speed
Drive at a consistent speed for the best gas mileage. If you are on the highway, use cruise control. Also, keep your speed down. I know some areas of our highway just increased the speed limit to 70 mph. Driving at a speed under that will save on gas.
Alternatives
Think about alternate transportation. If you live in a city- walk, take the buss or ride a bike. If you do need to drive, consider car pooling.
Do you have a tip for improving fuel efficiency? What are gas prices in your area? Please share in the comments below!
Photo Credit Castrique
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I live out in the country and need to drive at least 25 min to get to the nearest store, I usually go with a couple of friends for our weekly grocery shopping night and we switch off driving. It helps a lot.
Michelle,
That is a great idea! It is always more fun shopping with friends anyways!
Thanks for sharing!
Just a reminder to everyone, since Octane ranges across the nation. Here in Utah, the ‘regular’ octane is 83!!!! In DETROIT the regular Octane is 87 (which would be mid-grade here in Utah, and perhaps other states). In a mountainous, high elevation area, the 83 octane will put excessive wear on your engine and lower your efficiency when going up and down large inclines.
At the very least, check your cars manual for advice. I KNOW gas is expensive but so is a new transmission! Also, ask your dealership SERVICE people or whereever you get your oil changed if they have a recommendation/opinion.
I’m from Detroit and would never use anything lower than 87. ((I’m not an expert but I’m 93% certain that this is all acurate info, and 100% certain that it’s worth checking into))
Debi,
You are right, it is essential that you use the correct octane of gas for your vehicle. I didn’t even realize they had 83! I live in Virginia now and our low end is 87. Before that I was in California and we also had 87 but it was a heck of a lot more expensive there!
Thanks for the reminder!
My dh and I were introduced to a company a year ago that has vehicle products that can save you money on gas (10% fuel savings), oil (15,000 mile oil change instead of 3,000), transmission and radiator treatment that even racecar teams are starting to use. One man/a chemist invented them and his company has been manufacturing for over 40 years. (We are distributors for the company now and I can not believe the difference it makes in our budget at the end of the month) If you would like a product list or prices, please email me and say you saw it here! (I really don’t want to post my number or private info here) We have 5 kids and one full time income… we had to save money to make it!! God Bless you all!!
Thanks for the tips!