Photo Credit: Bill Howard
There is a consistent, dizzying pattern emerging: When gas prices top $4 a gallon, Americans get religion about fuel economy. The value of big SUVs drops and Honda Civics get second looks. With $5 gallon gas in some states, the process is well underway. As of late March, regular gas has gone up 47% in price in the last year, to an average of $4.24. Premium gas is up 41%. Diesel is up the most in the past year, 62%. Diesel is similar to home heating oil and jet fuel.
The pattern has been that when the pain at the pumps subsided—even a little—consumers go right back to their big SUVs. Now, with credible EVs and hybrids on the market, things may be changing permanently. For motorists looking for a more fuel-efficient vehicle, look to the best fuel-efficient trucks, high-mpg SUVs and hybrids. Plug-in hybrids combine electric motors that go 20-50 miles on battery before the gas engine kicks in. The future for many is the fully electric vehicle. Cox Automotive reports that in early March, interest in EVs soared by 69% and hybrid consideration gained 32%. These are Forbes Wheels’ best EVs for range, the best SUV EVs and the best electric cars. With the goal of saving as much gas as possible from your existing car, here are 20 tips for fuel misers:
Drive Smart: 20 Ways to Save Gas
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Gas prices are a fact of life, and no matter how much you use, you can save money by driving smarter. With a few simple changes, you can reduce your fuel costs—while helping the environment as well. Here are 20 ways to save gas while you’re on the road.
1. Keep your car properly maintained. Regular tune-ups and keeping up with manufacturer-recommended maintenance can help increase your fuel efficiency.
2. Utilize cruise control. When you’re driving on the highway and certain weather permits, you can save between 5 and 33% in fuel consumption by turning on your cruise control.
3. Refrain from vigorous driving. Rapid acceleration, drag racing and high speeds all cost you in fuel economy and performance.
4. Monitor your tires. Tires that are improperly inflated, over or under-inflated, and not aligned can reduce your gas efficiency by up to 11%.
5. Monitor your air filter. A clogged air filter affects performance, and forces the engine to work harder, thus consuming more gas.
6. Fit your car with a spoiler. Spoilers reduce air drag and act as an aerodynamic barrier, which increases your fuel efficiency.
7. Replace the oxygen sensor. A faulty oxygen sensor can negatively affect performance and reduce the car’s overall efficiency.
8. Adjust your driving habits. Try to anticipate traffic, avoid sudden accelerations and slow down on hill slopes.
9. Plan ahead. Map out your destination ahead of time and plan routes with fewer stops.
10. Avoid rush hour traffic when possible. If you can miss rush hour traffic, you’ll save gas.
11. Close the windows. When you’re driving, keep your windows closed to decrease drag.
12. Turn off your air conditioning. When you’re driving at lower speeds, turn off your A/C and open the windows, instead.
13. Reduce unnecessary weight in the car. Removing heavy items from your car reduces overall drag and increases efficiency.
14. Refrain from idling. Idling wastes gas, so it’s best to switch the engine off while you’re stopped in traffic.
15. Buy fuel efficiently. Try to buy fuel in the early morning or late evening. Gas is more dense in cooler temperatures, making it more efficient.
16. Use the right fuel. Make sure you’re using the right grade of gasoline for your car.
17. Shop around for the best prices. Check prices in your local area for the most affordable fuel source.
18. Invest in an efficient car. Look for the most fuel efficient cars on the market.
19. Upgrade your car. Upgrading to an energy efficient model will improve fuel efficiency and save you money in the long run.
20. Utilize car-pooling. You can save on both fuel costs and parking fees by car-pooling with friends or colleagues.
By following these simple tips, you can save money on gasoline and help preserve the environment. Drive smarter and enjoy the savings!
