4 ways to save money on gas
Can anyone remember the good old days when we could buy gasoline for less than a dollar?
Back in the roaring ’90s, we could drive our SUVs at minimal cost. Heck, back then I could fill my 20 gallon tank for less than twenty bucks if I knew where to get cheap gas. It seemed that naïve OPEC and the economic recession could help fuel cost $2.00 per gallon. A few years later, a war in the Middle East coupled with hurricane leaded gasoline prices briefly exceeded $3.00 per gallon. Unfortunately, the golden days of low gas prices have come and gone. If you’re a savvy consumer, you do more than live in hopes of lower gas prices; you need to consider the fuel efficiency of your vehicles.
The Energy Information Administration estimates that the United States consumes more than 20 million barrels (840 million gallons) of petroleum products each day, almost half in the form of gasoline used in more than 200 million motor vehicles with combined trips. of more than 7 billion miles per day. . A fluctuation in gasoline costs of even a few cents could cost American consumers millions of dollars.
Are here 4 tracks where you can reduce your gas costs:
1. Your car
Whether you drive a used SUV or a new compact economy car, your car’s maintenance will have an influence on your fuel costs. If you want to maximize your vehicle’s ability to use fuel, I would recommend the following:
Get those regular tweaks
This sounds like common sense to most people, but some people wait too long to get that much-needed oil change. The EPA predicts that fixing a faulty oxygen can save you up to 40% in fuel costs.
Replace your air filters
They are inexpensive and easy to replace. The EPA estimates that keeping your air filters clean could save you up to 10% on fuel.
Keep your tires properly inflated
Under-inflated tires can reduce gas mileage by up to 3%. They also make your tires wear out faster. You should check the PSI of your tires at least once a month.
2. Your trip
A shortcut along the way can change your fuel economy plan if you’re not careful. Your fuel economy can be influenced by multiple variables
Avoid stops and starts
Getting caught up in the morning and evening rush hour does more than just give you a headache. It makes your vehicle use more fuel as it spends more time idling in traffic. If possible, try to avoid rush hour by leaving earlier or later (if the boss agrees). Also try to stay on highways where you will experience fewer stops and starts. The quality of the road can influence the fuel economy of your car. The EPA also recommends using cruise control and overdrive speeds when possible.
unnecessary objects
Some people think of their cars as an extension of their rooms. Heavy objects can increase the drag of your vehicle and reduce fuel consumption. If you are on a road trip, it is recommended that you place objects (such as skis) inside your vehicle to reduce aerodynamic drag if possible.
3. Your leading football
Driving like you’re in a grand prix and trying to save money on gas is like going in two directions at once. In fact, the EPA predicts that driving at speeds of 60 mph increases aerodynamic drag and can dramatically reduce fuel consumption. It also increases the risk of having an accident or receiving a very expensive speeding ticket. Decelerate!
4. Your gas station
Sometimes it can be tempting to give in and buy gas at that nice and convenient gas station. The trendy look of it may convince you to spend a couple of extra bucks. If you’re like most people, you’re probably filling at least once, if not twice, a week. Those few extra dollars can really add up.