Automotive Journal

There are many ways to improve gas mileage and saving money on fuel. Most people often overlook combining errands such as shopping trips and trips into town. Think about all your errands and figure out some ways to do trip planning and taking the shortest routes possible with the least amount of stop starts this will help you save no only money and fuel but valuable time.

Consider online services that post gasoline prices in your area or the routes you travel. Let these services find the lowest gas prices for you instead of wasting time and money driving around town looking for the lowest prices. Incorporate your stop at the pump with your trip planning.

Instead of driving around town when shopping for products looking for the lowest price do your searching online. Consider having your purchases shipped to your door. Most major retailers or merchants offer their products online and offer a larger variety and sometimes a discount or free shipping. Not only will you save time and money driving to pick up the item but you are more likely to purchase something that matched your expectations.

If I told you air could increase gas mileage would you believe it? If you your tires are properly inflated you could see your gas mileage increase 3%. Tires that are not checked regularly for proper air pressure or wear and tear can be a safety hazard and wear even quicker. Tires that are check regularly and it should be done monthly will save you money in the long run not just on fuel costs but on tire replacement.

Refer to your owners manual to get recommendations on when your oil should be changed. Oil that goes beyond its service life could cost you in a few ways. Keeping your oil changed as recommended can give you an increase in gas mileage of 1-2%. If it is discovered during an oil change that you have a dirty oil filter consider changing it and you could possibly see a 10% increase in gas mileage.

Keep your vehicle tuned up. If it is running rough or you have noticed a decrease in mileage it may be time for a tune up. Many things can affect your fuel cost but discovering a faulty oxygen sensor could save gas as much as 40%. A car that is properly tuned up will burn less gas, run smoother and extend the life of your engine.

While driving always give your vehicle some distance from the one your following. Let your vehicle coast to a natural stop while minimizing brake use. Let wind resistance reduce your speed. When accelerating no need to gun it. Set your cruise control to improve gas mileage. Not only will these methods save gas but will save you money by reducing wear and tear on your engine, brakes and transmission.

Will you be purchasing a more fuel efficient vehicle soon because you want to get rid of a gas guzzler or just looking for ways to improve gas mileage? Compare miles per gallon or MPG. Be wary of a vehicle that needs premium gas compared to one that needs regular. If an automobile manufacturer recommends premium chances are the vehicle needs it and running it on regular could reduce engine life. Try to stick to regular or ethanol ready engines. Always research the vehicle you plan on buying.