6 Ways To Improve Gas Mileage Today!
Gas prices may have dropped from the crazy four-dollar-plus per gallon that it was last summer, but it still isn’t cheap. With prices hovering around three dollars per gallon, it still takes a huge bite out of the budget. Here are 6 steps you can take to get more for your money, and keep more money in your wallet – where it belongs!
1. Make sure your tires are properly inflated. Under-inflated tires take considerably more energy to move your car. Check your tire pressure every time you fill up – it doesn’t cost anything extra and you’ll be considerably safer too.
2. Check tire alignment. Tires that aren’t in alignment make your engine work harder, which means burning more gas. Check your tires alignment every 6 to 9 months.
3. Have your brakes checked. Brakes that are improperly aligned or worn make braking much less efficient, which in turn means you have to brake longer or harder, and burn more gas to accelerate again. Check your brakes whenever you have your tires aligned.
4. Make sure your engine is tuned. An improperly tuned engine can burn a LOT more gas than necessary. Have dirty or worn spark plugs replaced.
5. Don’t idle more than necessary. Idling gives you exactly zero miles per gallon. Though it takes more gas when your engine turns over, if you are going to be idling for 30 seconds or more, it pays to turn off your engine.
6. Improve your driving habits. Learn to accelerate less, do your errands during off-peak times when there is less traffic, think ahead and combine trips whenever possible. Avoid congestion, and especially stop and go traffic.
There are many more ways to improve gas mileage. Visit sites like www.gasforlessmoney.com and start practicing some of these gas-saving tips. A gas mileage improvement of just 10% can translate into a $5-$10 savings at the pump!
The author is currently working through her Accelerated Nursing Programs.
Tags: gas mileage, gas prices, Money & Finance, save money, Travel