GAS
SAVING STRATEGIES
We all know that people
love to talk about high gas prices just as much as the latest American Idol
episode. Here's some ways to cut down on these costs:
Check
Tire Pressure: Tires that are
under-inflated use more gas and drivers can save over 3 percent with properly
inflated tires.
Drive at
a Consistent Speed: It uses much
more gas to accelerate and brake then it does to drive at a constant speed.
Instead of racing up to a stop-light and slamming on the brakes, take your foot
off the gas and coast.
Don't
Drive too Fast: Driving over 60
mph uses more gas.
Get
Regular Checkups: Perform the
standard maintenance recommended by your car manual such as regular oil and
filter changes. Just don't go overboard. At quickie oil-change places they are
constantly trying to sell you unnecessary "engine flushes". If it's
not in your car's manual, you don't need it!
Know When
to Use the AC: At slow speeds,
it is more efficient to just roll down the windows. At high speeds, air
conditioning is more fuel efficient because rolling down the windows increases
wind resistance.
Take Off
the Luggage Rack! If you are
driving around with a luggage rack, you could be reducing your fuel efficiency
by 10%. Take it off it you aren't using it.
Clean out
the Extra Luggage: Some people use
their cars as a second closet. All this extra weight reduces your mileage.
Don't Get
Premium Gas: Premium gas
will not help your mileage or your performance unless your car's manual
specifically says you need it. If not, just buy regular.
Pay with
a Cash-Back Card: Some credit
cards, such as the Citi Dividend card will give you a 5% rebate on gas. What a
deal!
Buy a
more Fuel Efficient Car: Obviously, driving around in a Hummer will cost you a lot at
the pump. It's amazing how many SUV owners complain about gas prices when they
are also the ones causing them!
Drive
Less: This is totally obvious, of course,
but planning your day better can reduce the number of trips you need to make.
Also, consider taking the bus or walking.
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