With gas prices going higher and higher, we thought we would
devote a separate page to this popular question. Here are a few tips:
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Don't be heavy on the gas or the brake pedal. Slowly
accelerate and plan ahead for the next stop sign. This can reduce your
fuel economy by as much as 33% on the highways and 5% around town. For
every 5 mph above 55, you can lose as much as 10% of your fuel economy.
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Do not drive at higher speeds. Wind resistance and
mechanical friction can reduce fuel economy.
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Drive highways. Driving as a consistent speed helps with
fuel economy. Use cruise control whenever possible.
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Do not idle excessively. In Europe, drivers turn off
their engines at traffic signals.
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Plan your trips. A cold engine does not operate
efficiently until it is warmed up. However, letter your car idle does
not help your fuel economy. Drive to your furthest destination first and
make your other stops as you head for home.
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Remove cargo or cargo racks. Again, wind resistance can
reduce fuel economy.
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Unhook your trailer when not in use. In fact, clean out
your car. Carrying that bag of fertilizer around in your trunk for
several weeks will
reduce your fuel economy.
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Don't run your air conditioner. Running your air
conditioner on "Max" can reduce your fuel economy between 5% and 25%.
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Avoid driving on hilly or mountainous roads.
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Do not use 4-wheel drive unless it is necessary.
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Keep your car in good running order. A poorly tuned
engine burns more fuel, as can a dirty air filter.
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Keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure.
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Have your tires aligned routinely.
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Have your brakes checked. A dragging brake will lower
the fuel economy.
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Use the proper oil for your car. The viscosity of the
engine oil is always increasing. The thicker the oil, the harder it is
to push through the engine. Check your owners manual.
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Have the gap on your spark plugs checked. Replace spark plug
wires.
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Have your mechanic look for fouled fuel injectors and replace
them if necessary.
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Experts say you should keep your gas tank more than half full.
Less air in the tank decreases the amount of evaporation.
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Fill your gas tank in the morning, when it is cooler.
The gas will expand as the day and your car heat up.