6 Tips for Improved Fuel
Economy
Still letting high gas prices keep you from taking a road
trip to your favorite destination? Why? Just following a few simple and
inexpensive vehicle maintenance steps can stretch your dollar and give you more
power at the pump
Fuel consumption is directly related to auto care and has a
significant impact on how much gas you use. Gas prices may rise quickly, but you no longer
have to be a victim and just take it. Properly maintaining your vehicle can
improve fuel economy as well as save you money.
Performing these simple maintenance tips, will improve fuel
economy allowing you to spend more time on the road and less at the pump.
•
Tune-Up: Keep your car properly tuned to
improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent.
•
Tire Pressure: Keep tires properly
inflated and improve gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent.
•
Motor Oil: Improve gas mileage by 1 to 2
percent by using the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer.
•
Air Filters: Replacing clogged air
filters on older vehicles can improve fuel economy and will improve performance
and acceleration on all vehicles.
•
Gas Cap: Damaged, loose or missing gas
caps allow gas to vaporize into the air.
•
Fix It: Addressing a serious maintenance
problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40
percent, according to www.fueleconomy.gov.
Modifying driving habits, such as driving the speed limit
and avoiding quick stops and starts, can also increase fuel efficiency.
Consolidating trips, avoiding excessive idling and removing unnecessary items
from the trunk are also easy ways to lower fuel consumption.