Many people today are feeling the pain at the pump. The gas prices are always fluctuating, but the good news is that there are steps that you can take to increase your gas mileage. The following tips will help you get more miles per gallon.
Poor driving habits can cause you to waste gas. In fact, poor driving habits can decrease your gas mileage by anywhere from 15 to 30 percent. You should follow the speed limit and all of the laws of the road.
Unleaded gas is cheaper than premium gas. Many people put premium fuel in their vehicle because they assume that is what it needs. However, it is a good idea to check the owner’s manual to see what type of gas your vehicle needs. Your vehicle may not need premium fuel.
Your gas mileage is reduced by 1 percent for every additional 100 pounds in your vehicle. If you have a small vehicle, then the gas mileage may be reduced even more. That is why you should avoid overloading your vehicle.
Maintenance not only ensures that your vehicle functions the way that it should, but it also helps you get better gas mileage. For example, changing the air filter may increase fuel efficiency by 10 to 15 percent. The purpose of the air filter is to remove debris. The debris can end up in your engine and make it work less efficiently.
Oil changes also help boost fuel efficiency. Your engine does not have to work as hard if it is provided with clean oil. Furthermore, it is important for you to check your tire pressure. Low tire pressure can decrease gas mileage.
Frequent accelerating and braking will cause you to use more gas. You can reduce the need to accelerate and brake by using cruise control. Cruise control may increase fuel efficiency by 14 percent.
An idle car will waste gas. That is why you should turn off your vehicle if you have to stop for more than 10 seconds. Not only does this save gas, but it also cuts down on harmful emissions.