1. Pay attention to how you drive.
Don't exceed highway speed limits. Use moderate-to-easy
acceleration. Gas mileage is negatively affected by fast
acceleration and fast deceleration. Use cruise control on highway
trips. Maintaining a constant speed helps reduce fuel consumption.
2. Engine maintenance
Maintain a properly tuned engine. Dirty spark plugs do not create
the maximum spark and cause reduced horsepower and increased
emissions.
3. Limit reliance on air conditioning
Limit use of air conditioning, especially during hot summer days.
Yes, we know it's not as comfortable but the issue here is saving
gas.
4. Synthetic lubricants
Switch to synthetic motor oil and drivetrain lubricants. Independent
tests show savings of two to five percent using AMSOIL synthetic
motor oil, gear lubes and ATF.
5. Air filter
Install clean air filter as needed. To get optimal efficiency from
your engine, it has to breathe.
6. Aerodynamics
Keep windows rolled up at speeds over 40 mph. Open windows when
driving over 40 mph can create a wind drag that will lower your
mileage. Avoid use of roof rack. Reduce aerodynamic drag and improve
your fuel economy by placing items inside the trunk whenever
possible. Sun roofs also disturb smooth aerodynamic air flow and
reduce mileage.
7. Tire Maintenance
Properly inflate your tires. Keep tires balanced and rotated
regularly. Use radial tires for less friction between tire and road.
Keep front-end aligned for better mileage and longer tire life.
8. Excess weight
Pack light and clean out your trunk. Every 200 pounds of unnecessary
weight shaves one mile per gallon off your gas mileage. You would be
surprised how much stuff most people carry around in their trunks
that they aren't using.
9. Minimize Idling.
Idling any longer than a minute wastes gas and one minute of idling
uses more fuel than restarting your engine. When possible avoid
drive-thrus. Idling for as little as 10 minutes while you sit in
line can waste 5 or 6 miles worth of gas. Limit warm-ups to 30
seconds. Allowing your vehicle to idle excessively wastes gas.
10. Plan and combine your trips.
Make a list and do all your grocery shopping once a week. Car pool,
hike it, bike it or use public transportation if possible.