The 8 Most Important Gas Saving Tips to Get High M
Date: 2008/08/03 22:35
By: KatiePery
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As the price of gasoline continues to soar, and some economists are predicting prices may reach up to $7-8 a gallon, many people are scrambling for ways to reduce their soaring fuel bills. The good news is that there are a few quick tips people can follow to immediately improve their gas mileage of their existing vehicles, as well as some inexpensive options to double, triple, or even quintuple your fuel efficiency.
1. Clean Junk Out of Car
First, clean our your car. Take all the excess items out of your cabin and trunk, only leaving your spare tire, jack, and any truly necessary items. Carrying fifty to one hundred extra pounds of burns more fuel and over time also adds to the wear and tear on shocks and breaks. If you live in a cold weather state and carry kitty litter or sand in your trunk during winter months, make sure you remove the bags during the other three seasons.
2. Check Tire Pressure
Under inflated tires are the most common cause of poor gas mileage. Tires lose air pressure from temperature changes and over time. Check your tire pressure at least once a month to make sure they are properly inflated to your automobile manufacturer's recommendation for your vehicle. The proper psi level is located in your vehicle's manual or on the door jamb of the vehicle. Do NOT inflate the tires to the maximum air pressure listed on the tires. Over-inflated tires can be dangerous and negatively effect the handling of a vehicle.
3. Check Air Filter
Next, make sure your air filter is clean and isn't clogged or wet with fuel. A dirty air filter restricts the flow of air to the engine and decreases fuel mileage. Air filters are inexpensive and easy to change without going to a mechanic. A clean air filter can increase gas mileage by up to 10%. Consider a high performance, permanent air filter by companies like K&N. Permanent air filters can be washed out and re-used rather than replaced, leaving your wallet lighter and the planet cleaner.
4. Coast When Possible
Laying off the gas pedal when possible will help save fuel, increase mileage, and put less wear on breaks. When heading the last few hundred feet to a red traffic light or stop sign, coast. Every little bit helps.
5. Keep Windows Closed
Open windows create more drag on an automobile and reduces fuel efficiency, so keep your windows closed when possible, especially on a highway. If it's the hot summer months, close the windows and turn on the air conditioning. Contrary to popular myth, Consumer Reports has proven that running a vehicle's air conditioning does not hurt gas mileage, so there's no need to sweat it out. Close the windows, turn up the air, and enjoy better mileage.
6. If Possible, Down Size to a Smaller, More Fuel Efficient Vehicle
If you're driving an SUV, pickup, or larger car, and don't need the extra room, consider downsizing to a smaller vehicle with better fuel efficiency. Today's new small cars can get 30 mpg or better, a huge improvement over the 15 mpg or less the average American made older sedan gets. The Honda Fit, Nissan Versa, or Toyota Yaris are fuel misers and good buys, starting at $11,550. If the price of a new car doesn't fit in your budget, consider an older used car, such as a Geo Metro, Honda Civic, or Ford Focus. Older Geo Metro's can get up to 58 mpg highway, and can be found for as little as $200 on places like Craigslist and eBay.
7. Ride a Bike
Work close to home? Just running an errand for a few groceries or other items? Break out that old bicycle. You'll eliminate your gas expense, avoid pollution, and the exercise is good for you. Modern bicycle saddle bags and trailers allow you to transport your items and groceries safely and securely on your bicycle without driving your car or truck. Don't have a bike? You can find an inexpensive used bicycle at garage sales, local police auctions, or online, and pay a fraction of the cost of a new bicycle.
8. Get an Inexpensive Scooter and Park the Car
Mopeds and Scooters are a great way to commute to work or run local errands while sipping at the fuel pumps. Scooters can get double the mpg of the best cars or trucks, and some can even get 5 times the mpg of a Honda Civic! Scooter fuel efficiency range from 60-150 mpg, depending on the model and driving conditions. Used scooters typically range from $200-$5000 or more. A classic Vespa scooter in good condition often sells for only $1000-$1500, retain their value, and will pay for themselves quickly.
To learn more about gas saving tips and products, visit CheapGasFind.com, where you'll find name brand fuel saving products like Air Filters K&N, locate an inexpensive, high MPG Moped Gas Scooter near you, plus browse a daily updated database of local gas prices, and much more.
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