We all know that filling the tank is expensive. The rising cost of fuel has a weighty negative impact on the household budget. Here are some easy ways to save some money when you fill up at the pump.
1. Don’t let it idle.
Letting the car idle eats up more fuel than what you might think. So don’t let it idle longer than needed. When starting the car in the morning, immediately drive off (start slow at first. Allow the engine and gearbox etc. to warm up.) This will minimize the amount of time the engine has to inhale the over-rich fuel mixture required for the starting and idling of the car. When stuck in traffic and you can see that it doesn’t look like you will be moving any time soon, shut the engine off.
2. Be gentle with the throttle.
Accelerating quickly, driving fast, braking hard, in general can all cost you when it comes to fuel expenses. To avoid stressing the engine, use the lower gears and accelerate slowly. Some experts estimate that you will be able to save up to between 33 – 38 % on fuel when you drive calmly, allow your car to cruise instead of breaking hard and adhere to the speed limit. (Even try and drive slightly slower than usual, reducing your habitual speed.)
3. Check the tire pressure.
Under inflated tires means less rolling resistance. It also causes lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop for the average pressure of all tyres. Most people don’t nearly check their tire pressure enough, you should try and check your tires at least every two weeks. Keep your tires inflated to the proper PSI as indicated in your owner’s manual and you should be good to go. This will help with your gas mileage as well as increase your car’s traction and handling.
4. Avoid carrying trailers and roof racks.
This means that your vehicle will expend more energy due to the aerodynamic drag. It dramatically increases the air resistance. As much as possible try to carry most of your excess luggage inside your car. Although more weight will only increase the amount of fuel while you accelerate, not while your cruising. So if it can’t be avoided, try to drive slow and allow your vehicle to coast when possible.
5. Look after your vehicle.
Paying attention to your car and making sure your basic car maintenance is being taken care of on a regular basis is another thing that will help with your fuel expenses. A scheduled check-up, tune up, oil change, air filter, spark plugs, etc. will help increase your gas mileage. And a regular service will ensure your car to be in top working condition.
Luckily it doesn’t take much for you to improve on the fuel economy of your car. So keep up the maintenance and drive smart.
