Best Ways to Save on Gas
Best Ways to Save on Gas
With gas prices skyrocketing lately, everyone is looking for ways to stretch their gas mileage. Fortunately, you don’t have to spend a lot of money to save money at the pump. Instead, you can make a few small changes to your driving habits and maintenance items to reduce your gas costs by at least fifty cents a gallon, if not more. By following tips like these, you could save the equivalent of a monthly car payment over a year of driving.
Avoid Idling
Most newer vehicles come with an automatic stop when you idle your car to save fuel. Waiting at a red light takes about 45 to 120 seconds, while starting your vehicle requires about 10 seconds of gas, per the U.S. Department of Energy. If your car doesn’t have this auto start/stop feature and you are parked safely for more than 10 seconds, consider turning off the engine to save on gas. Idling can cost you up to half a gallon of fuel per hour.
Cargo Containers
Cargo containers and bike racks are handy, but did you know that they increase the vehicle’s wind resistance? According to the U.S Department of Energy, aerodynamic drag can increase fuel consumption by as much as 20% on the highway. So if you are not using them, take them off or switch to rear-mounted cargo boxes.
Proper Maintenance
Most people know that maintaining your vehicle is essential to extending the life of your car. However, it will also improve your gas mileage by an average of 4%, though results vary based on how well your car is already running. You can find your vehicle's recommended service schedule in the owner’s manual.
Properly Inflated Tires
Over time, your car's tires will lose air pressure, affecting your miles per gallon. It's best to check your tires every month if your vehicle doesn’t have tire pressure sensors. To know your car’s ideal PSI rating, check your manual or the sticker in the jamb of your driver’s side door. When your tires are under-inflated, your fuel efficiency will drop about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop below your optimal PSI rating.
Oil Change
Regular oil changes improve your car’s gas mileage. As the new oil moves through the engine, the lubrication of the metal parts increases your engine’s performance and helps it run more efficiently with less work, so it doesn’t eat up as much gas. Using the proper oil for your engine can improve your gas mileage by 1% to 2%.
Trustworthy Service Center Near Me
If you are looking for more ways to improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency, head over to Kufleitner Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram's service center. Our technicians are highly trained and certified to perform whatever work you need on your vehicle. They are prepared to perform everything from regularly scheduled appointments to major repairs. As a result, you can count on a continued driving experience unlike any other from Kufleitner Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram's service center.
May not represent actual vehicle. (Options, colors, trim and body style may vary)
Max payload/towing estimate ratings shown. Additional options, equipment, passengers, and cargo weight may affect payload/towing weights. See dealer for details.