How to Maximize Your Fuel Efficiency
Gas prices are starting to climb again, which might be hitting you hard in the wallet if you drive a big SUV or truck. Regardless of what vehicle is parked in your garage, there are some easy things you can do to that add up in the long run.
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Check your gas cap
According to the team at Motor1.com, about 17 percent of cars in service today have an issue with their gas cap. While some newer models don’t need them, if yours still has one you should check it every time you remove it. A new cap will contain the fuel fumes that are harmful to the environment, and it can save you on average of two cents per gallon in wasted efficiency.
Cut down on wind resistance
Most modern cars are built to glide through the air as easily as possible, with aerodynamic shapes working to cut down drag. The less drag on your vehicle, the more miles per gallon it can achieve. We’re not suggesting that you go out and reshape your car to make it even sleeker to save a few cents at the pump. Instead, avoid using a roof-top cargo box. Fuel Economy.gov reports that using one can reduce your fuel efficiency from 6 to 17 percent on the highway and 10 to 25 percent at maximum interstate speeds. That’s a lot of money to lose because you couldn’t pack light for your next road trip.
Drive steady
A quick way to drain fuel is to drive aggressively. FuelEconomy.gov reports that rapid acceleration and braking, as well as speeding, can come together to reduce your car’s possible miles per gallon about 15-30 percent. When you feel road rage coming on, take a deep breath and think of the money you’ll save when driving steadily. If you have problems maintaining speed on the highway, consider using cruise control. Your car will perform better holding a constant speed than weaving through a range.
Skip the traffic
Traffic makes steady driving hard, and it shows. When you’re stuck in a stop-and-go jam, FuelEconomy.gov says your vehicle’s efficiency drops anywhere from 10-40 percent. If you’re serious about cutting down on your fuel usage, consider using an app like Waze that monitors traffic in real time and gives alternate routes around difficult roads. Sometimes it’s unavoidable, but it doesn’t hurt to try and miss out on the worst gridlock in your area.
Line up your wheels
If you’ve ever gone roller skating or rollerblading, you know that you go faster when all your wheels are pointed in the same direction. The same thing applies to your car. When your wheels and tires are aligned properly, your car has to spend less fuel to move your vehicle forward. Motor1.com reports that misaligned wheels can cost up to 10 percent fuel economy, so it’s worth the time and money to have your wheels checked regularly
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Following just a few of these suggestions can help you save money and use less gas as you drive. Consider taking the advice to heart as gas prices begin to rise.
Sources: FuelEconomy.gov, Motor1.com
The News Wheel is a digital auto magazine providing readers with a fresh perspective on the latest car news. We’re located in the heart of America (Dayton, Ohio) and our goal is to deliver an entertaining and informative perspective on what’s trending in the automotive world. See more articles from The News Wheel.