Recent gas hikes in California led to many commuters scrambling to find gas stations with the lowest prices. While these gas increases may be temporary, the need to be more fuel efficient and save on fuel costs is a permanent goal for many. Business Consumer Alliance has eight fuel saving tips to save you money.
Be Sensible
Don’t waste gas being an aggressive driver. Because gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph, avoid speeding and observe the speed limit. Also, avoid accelerating and braking rapidly. Practicing safe driving habits can save you money on gas and can also save a life.
Lighten Up
Hauling cargo on your roof increases wind resistance and lowers fuel economy. Instead, consider using rear-mount cargo boxes or trays that are more fuel efficient. Remember to remove external cargo containers when not in use to save fuel and money. Also, remove any unnecessary items out of the car, especially heavy ones. An extra 100 lbs. in small vehicles can reduce miles per gallon by about 1.
Don’t Idle
Depending on engine size and air conditioner use, idling can use a quarter to a half gallon of gas per hour. If you’re parked, turn off the engine.
Put it in Cruise
You can improve fuel economy when driving on the highway by using cruise control, which allows you to maintain a constant speed. (Note: It’s advisable to turn off cruise control in mountainous areas due to the extra gas used downshifting to lower gears while trying to maintain the set speed.)
Keep Up With Maintenance
It’s always recommended to keep up with manufacturer recommended maintenance at the proper intervals. Fixing serious maintenance problems, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage significantly. Keeping tires properly inflated and aligned, using the recommended grade of motor oil, and replacing a bad gas cap can help fuel economy.
Make it a Combo
Combine errands into one trip instead of several short ones can help save time and fuel. Planning your trip can reduce the miles you travel, which saves you money and gas. Shared commuting efforts, such as carpooling and ridesharing, as well as using public transportation, are also effective ways to save.
Shop Around and Get Rewarded
Mobile apps and websites such as Gasbuddy can show you where the cheapest gas is in your area. Also, some grocery stores, like Vons, offer gas rewards when you make purchases in their store. Some credit cards also offer cash back for gas purchases.
Skip the Gas-Saving Products
Watch out for auto devices or oil and engine additive products that claim to save gas. The Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA”) has tested many types of "gas-saving" products and most devices tested had little to no effect on fuel economy; some even had a negative effect. EPA testing has received no credible data showing a positive effect on fuel economy from devices that turn water into fuel, fuel line devices, or mixture enhancers. More information on the EPA tests is available on the EPA website.
About the Author
Nicole Pitts is a Senior Business Analyst and Writing Correspondent for Business Consumer Alliance. She has been with the organization for 13 years and specializes in report writing, business evaluation, and investigations. Nicole corresponds with businesses regarding complaint trends and provides suggestions to help them alleviate problem areas that may cause concern. She also conducts advertisement reviews, reports on government enforcement actions, and assists government agencies and the media in obtaining information. She enjoys reading, movies, and spending time with her family. Nicole may be reached by email at npitts@businessconsumeralliance.org.