Tips for Better Gas Mileage

Step1

Take care of your vehicle. Clean oil, fresh spark plugs and a well-tuned motor are more efficient than a run-down system.

Step2

Check your air filter. If dirty or old, replace it.

Step3

Run your air conditioner less.

Step4

Use the correct gasoline. Most cars run well on an octane rating of 87. Mostly it's just high-performance and turbocharged engines that need higher octane. If your engine is pinging on acceleration or up hills (sounds like shaking uncooked popcorn in a glass jar) use a higher octane gasoline. Check the owner's manual for your vehicle's requirements.

Step5

Keep your tires inflated properly. Incorrect inflation leads to rolling resistance from the tires. Most car tires should be inflated to 32 PSI.

Step6

Drive at an even speed, whenever possible. It's more efficient than rushing to the next traffic light and then stopping.

Step7

Use cruise control on the highway.

Step8

Choose the route with the flattest terrain and fewest stops, if you can.

Step9

Drive on highways instead of city streets, where practical. A vehicle moving at constant speed is more efficient than one that slows and speeds up, stops and starts.

Step10

Do all your driving errands at once.

Step11

Read the label the federal government requires on new cars the next time you shop for a vehicle. It tells a model's estimated city and highway mileage so that you can compare mileage figures for all the vehicles you consider.

Step12

Eliminate unnecessary cargo. Hauling heavy loads in the trunk or inside the car will lower your gas mileage

Step13

Drive at 55 MPH. It saves gas.

Step14

Keep track of your car's mileage: if it changes drastically, follow the above steps and then go see your mechanic if you can't figure out why.

For more ways to save on fuel, go here.