1. Buy gas early in the morning. Gasoline becomes denser as it cools. A few degrees of temperature can make a difference in the total cost of gasoline for a few months or years. Regulations are currently being implemented to address this loophole, but it will take some time to implement a solution. Take advantage of it while you can!
2. Brake less. Why speed to a stoplight and waste gas and brake pads. If you see a red light ahead, start sliding until you see the indicator turn green again.
3. Change before. If you have a manual transmission, get into the highest gear as quickly as possible. You don’t have to go through all the gears. Passing on the freeway doesn’t mean you should shift down to 3rd gear from 4th or 5th.
4. Use your cruise control and stay in your own lane. Past studies have shown that following basic traffic laws and constantly changing lanes and speeds does not reduce travel time. Unless you are passing, stay in any lane except the far left and follow the flow of traffic.
5. Tighten the gas cap. Missing or loose gas caps can allow gasoline vapors to escape at an alarming rate. While a gallon of water can take an entire day to evaporate in hot weather, it can take as little as an hour depending on temperature and pressure.
6. Replace your air filters. This will allow the proper amount of air to enter your engine and maximize the power created during combustion. High performance aftermarket filters allow more air into your engine (increasing efficiency) and are reusable (washable) to save you money.
7. Keep your car in good shape. A malfunctioning car with broken sensors or parts will waste gas. If you have a check engine light on, make sure you take your car to a reputable mechanic. Many stores will check error light codes for free.
8. Turn off the air conditioning. This is not an option for some people, especially those of us in the South. However, the activated compressor will cause parasitic drag on the engine and cause a loss of power and efficiency.
9. Keep the windows closed. This will reduce drag on your car.
10. Empty your car. Carrying extra weight will kill gas mileage. Of course you need your spare tire and a small repair kit, but get rid of any extra new or used auto parts, old tools you’re not using, or other spare gadgets in your car. The next time you replace your tires, you may want to consider running flat. Although they are normally heavier than standard tires, removing the spare from the trunk will give you the advantage of saving weight.
