How To Save Money on Gas
5 July | Carrie Fulton
How can you save money on gas?
- It starts with your tires
- Under-inflated tires can increase your fuel consumption 3% because it causes more rolling resistance. So check your tires at least once a month!
- Check your owner's manual or the wall of your tires for the correct PSI for your tires.
- Narrower tires also help your car be more aerodynamic so long as they fit the wheels property and give the traction necessary for you to be safe.
2. Avoid Rush Hour
- Idling is the worst thing for gas milage! It actually takes more fuel than turning off and restarting your car.
- Adjusting your schedule to miss rush hours can save you both time and money.
- When on a road trip, use those rush hours to explore a new city, enjoy a meal or explore a park so kids can get their wiggles out before getting back into the car for the rest of the drive.
3. Watch your speed
- Frequent breaking and acceleration is rough for fuel efficiency so when you can set your cruise control.
- Once you reach 50mph, you've hit the sweet spot for a road trip. Above that can use fuel faster than if you stay closer to the speed limit.
- Keep your tank at least 1/4 full! Because levels lower than that require your fuel pump to work harder decreasing its efficiency.
4. Check your engine
- We all want to ignore the check engine light but sensors that can trigger it to go off can impact your fuel efficiency by 20% or more.
- Be sure to take your vehicle in for a once over before your next road trip to ensure your engine is up to date for its maintenance. Be sure they check your oxygen levels, spark plugs, engine emissions and air filters.
- Calculate your fuel mileage between service visits. If you see a significant drop, there's likely something wrong with your car!
5. Road trip rules
- Consider a rear mounted cargo box which impact fuel economy 1-5% rather than a roof mounted one which impacts it up to 17%.
- Clear out as much clutter as you can to make your car a light as possible.
- Keep your windows up on the highway but keep your air conditioning as low as you can to minimize stress on the engine.
To get more travel insight and help, contact me at CFulton@WishesFamilyTravel.com or 513.304.4103. I would love to help you plan the vacation you want and deserve!