Fuel prices have skyrocketed in the last decade or so, and so owning a car can be costly. Whether you’re a student taking auto mechanic courses or simply trying to make ends meet, everyone is struggling with fuel economy. Luckily, there are a number of solutions that you can implement right now to improve your gas mileage and save money at the tank. All it takes is a little discipline and willpower.
Here are a few tips to help you improve your fuel economy.
Make sure your tires are properly inflated
Making sure that your tires contain the correct amount of air pressure at all times can reduce your fuel consumption about 3%. By reviewing the air pressure in your tires about twice a month, you’ll save money on gas while preserving your tires longer, as properly inflated tires won’t wear down as fast. Lastly, try to inflate your tires according to the pressure recommended by your car manufacturer, not the maximum stamped on the tire. Any professional with auto mechanic training from auto mechanic schools will tell you that going above the maximum is a bad idea.
Slowdown and shut down
Going fast can be tempting (as well as a lot of fun). After all, this is what cars are for, right? While there’s nothing quite like that feeling of experiencing pure speed, not everything needs to be a race. The faster you drive, the more fuel you use. If you’re on the highway, driving at 90 km/h instead of 110 km/h can save you gas over the duration of your trip. Sure, you’ll arrive at your destination maybe 5 or 10 minutes later, but think of how much you’ll be saving! Similarly, make sure to shut down your engine whenever you find yourself waiting inside your car for a few minutes. For example, if you’re stuck waiting for a train to finish crossing, or you’ve just dropped off someone and are now waiting for them to return, turn off your engine! Over time, this will make a big difference in your fuel economy.
Keep your trunk empty
Weight is one of the biggest causes of loss of kinetic energy in cars. This means the heavier your car is, the more fuel it needs to use to bring you from point A to point B. If you’re using your trunk as storage space, take everything out and store your things in a garage or somewhere else indoors instead. If your car has seats that you never use, take them out if they can be removed. By shedding weight, you’ll improve your fuel economy and will notice a difference over time. Lastly, if you’re in the process of shopping for a car, consider the car’s weight as part of your evaluation. A lighter car can lead to better fuel consumption.
