With gas prices rising steadily and currently over $4 per gallon, it is more important than ever to conserve gas and drive more efficiently.
According to the US government source for fuel economy information, there are several techniques to save the amount of gas your car uses in everyday driving. Some driving behaviors that we all can fall victim to from time to time use more gas than necessary, and ultimately burns through the money in your pocket.
Here are some techniques that you can begin to use today to save fuel and money!
Driving the Speed Limit Helps with Gas Prices
Do you have a “lead foot?” Do you believe that it is ok to drive 5 – 10 miles over the speed limit, but it is a fact that gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 50 mph is like paying an additional 30-cents per gallon for gas. Driving the speed limit can save fuel and, of course, it is safer.
Take a Deep Breath
If you are angry or late for an appointment, you may drive aggressively. Speeding, rapid acceleration and braking wastes gas. Driving in this way at highway speeds can lower your gas mileage by roughly 15% to 30%. In stop-and-go traffic, you’ll lower your gas mileage from 10% to 40%!
Driver Feedback
Vehicle devices that give you feedback on how you are driving – and how fast – can help you drive more efficiently. Drivers who use these devices can improve fuel economy by about 10%.
Roof Racks? NO!
Avoid hauling cargo on your roof because it can increase aerodynamic drag (wind resistance) and lowers fuel economy. If you place a large cargo box on your roof, your fuel economy can suffer from 2% – 8% when driving in the city, 6% to 17% on the highway, and 10% to 25% at Interstate speeds of 65 to 75 mph.
A rear-mount cargo box reduces fuel economy by much less – only 1% to 2% in city driving and 1% to 5% on the highway. Note that if you have to use an external cargo container, you should remove it when it is not in use to save on gas prices.
Put Your Vehicle on a Diet
Remove all unnecessary items in your vehicle, especially heavy ones. You can save up to 2% on fuel!
A Surprising Gas Guzzler
Excessive idling can use a quarter to a half gallon of fuel per hour… more if the air conditioner is in use! Turn off the engine when you are parked. (It only takes about 10 seconds worth of fuel to restart your vehicle!)
Use Your Cruise Control to Save on Gas Prices
When driving on the highway, your cruise control maintains a constant speed and in most cases, will save gas.
Remember Your Tire Air Pressure
Check your tire air pressure often to be sure they are inflated at the manufacturer’s recommended pressure to cut down on fuel costs.
Remember that keeping your vehicle running at tip-top shape not only increases its performance and “life span” but also saves fuel! (The figures were based on a fuel price of $4.33 per gallon.) If you have questions about your vehicle’s fuel consumption, contact BDR Automotive at (508) 429-4720 or by email.