How to Save on Gasoline

Posted on August 13th, 2008 in Tips by tipsy

Are you spending more than what you have budgeted for your gasoline expenses? Some of these tips will help you cut on your refill bills.

There are other more important things to consider other than your gasoline this is why it is important that your money does not only revolve in this particular bill alone.

Perhaps what goes into your mind is to commute so that you will be using your car less often which is the same way as not eating food to save on groceries, but mind you, this is not saving. Saving on gas simply means maximizing the gas mileage.

With the rising cost of gasoline today, maximizing and giving the right mileage for what you have paid for is the right choice to save money. If you cannot go without using your car and gasoline, the best way is still to learn to maximize its usage.

Here are some reminders to help you save money on fuel:

1. Submit your car for a regular check up

By regularly checking your car, you will not only prolong the life span of your vehicle but can also give you better gas mileage.

Maintaining the car’s condition is already a proven step to save on fuel. Replace any defective parts immediately. The better the gas mileage, the more you can save on gasoline refills.

2. Drive slowly

If you like to drive your car like you are in the race, chances are, you will be spending more money in your fuel. If you really want to save, then drive slowly.

Experts say that driving at higher speed will greatly impact on the fuels’ efficiency. This means, your car will be using a large amount of gas on a particular time. For instance, driving at 105kph instead of just 88kph will consume around 17% of fuel. Converting that into dollars is simply overspending.

3. Check your vehicles’ filter condition

Air filters are one of the car’s most neglected parts. In fact, many drivers and motorists still do not understand the use of filters.

The main purpose of the car’s filter is to make sure that no sediments or debris will enter the car’s system. If the air is clean, the car will produce more force and energy which in turn provide a maximize usage of fuel.

Several people with dirty or clogged air filter noticed a 10% increase in gasoline mileage after their filters were replaced. Air filters will increase your engines’ performance and prolong durability.

4. Be gentle on the breaks

The most obvious reason why you should avoid sudden breaks and acceleration is the wearing off of your tires. Apart from that, prolonging these activities will cut short the life span of your car’s engine and increases your gasoline consumption by 18%.

When driving, accelerate only up to what is required in your area. Anticipating for a stop signal ahead and applying a gradual break will help you save your fuel.

5. Check your tires regularly

Inspect your tires if they are properly inflated. Deflated tires will make your vehicle heavy and in turn require your engine to produce more force to move it. Aside from that, a deflated tire easily wears off and without you knowing you will probably be buying a new one again next month.

You can easily tell if your car’s tires are properly inflated by looking in the manufacturer’s instructions, usually engraved on the tires. Studies show that a tire inflated to 2 PSI offers a 1% increase in your gas usage.

6. Keep your trip organized

Many people do not plan their trips and by doing so will hurt their pocket on fuel expenses. Getting things organized on the other hand, will make life a little easier and allows you to save money in return.

A very simple approach is to buy your groceries once a week in a single store. This is a great fuel saving tip.

7. Reduce wind resistance

Another simple approach towards saving fuel consumption is closing the doors when driving in a very windy environment. The more drag the vehicle experiences, the more force needed to bring it to speed.

All of these things, even how simple they can be, will help you save on gas consumption. Take some initiative and know where your gas flows so it will be a lot easier to find cost-effective means to save your money.

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