Try to Spend Less
The higher gas prices go, the more you can save by understanding vehicle fuel economy ratings and selecting the most fuel efficient car for your needs. Every year you could save hundreds, or even
thousands, depending on how much you drive.
The demand for fuel efficient cars is rising steadily, and many choices are available now, whether you're looking for an economy, midsize, or SUV. Whichever model you choose,
drive smart and take good care of your car. Good driving habits and proper maintenance will improve fuel economy and lower your fuel costs over time.
Reduce Dependence on Foreign Oil
The United States currently imports more than half of the gasoline we use to drive, at a price of more than $4 billion a week. The less fuel we use overall, the less our country has to depend on
foreign oil. Just as importantly, the money we save can circulate in our own economy.
Save Natural Resources
No one really knows how long the world's supply of oil will last. Because oil does not renew itself, it will eventually diminish. Some vehicles are powered by other resources, such as electricity,
but the vast majority are driven by oil-based fuels. We can make our oil supply last longer if we drive conservatively and increase fuel economy.
Maintenance Saves Money
There's no way around it. Drivers who take their vehicles in for regular service and maintenance experience fewer problems on the road. They also save money on gas. It makes sense that a vehicle
with a poorly operating, inefficient engine will not have the best fuel economy.
Keep Tires Pumped Up
Properly serviced vehicles are less likely to have under-inflated tires, another common cause of poor fuel economy. Keeping your tires inflated to your manufacturer's recommended tire pressure
will save you pennies on each gallon, as will properly aligned wheels.
Spot Trouble
Maintenance can also save drivers money by correcting problems that reduce fuel efficiency, or preventing problems from ever reducing gas mileage. Have your fluid levels and air filters checked
and replaced regularly.
Avoid Stop and Go
Most people know that fuel economy is lower in the city, but do you understand why? Pushing on the gas pedal and pushing on the brake pedal both use more gas than driving at a moderate, steady
speed. Stopping frequently and accelerating again—as you do in the city, where there are more traffic lights—decreases your fuel economy.
Dump the Baggage
Even if you drive one of the most efficient fuel economy cars on the market, extra weight requires extra gas to move. The more you can clean out of your car, the less you will pay at the pump.