Easy Ways to Save Gasoline

One easy and environmentally-friendly way to save money is to save gasoline.

The basic concept required is to drive carefully and plan ahead.

The easiest way to save some gas is to keep your car in good shape. You should change your oil as recommended, and also change your air filter when that's needed. All your tires should at least be inflated to the recommended pressure, and you should check on them at least once a month.

Unnecessary weight in your car reduces fuel economy. Do you really need those skis in the trunk when it's summertime?

Now we come to the actual driving. Once you turn on your car, you should shift into drive and start moving after about two seconds. Start off gradually increasing speed. If you have to drive to five different places for some shopping, first drive to the farthest location. That way your car will get warmed up and be more fuel efficient when you need to come back. Try to consolidate and if you can combine errands then do so.

While driving you should keep a safe distance from the person ahead of you. Also, avoid bumper-to-bumper traffic as it wastes fuel.

Try to maintain a constant speed and avoid hard braking. Braking uses fuel and you lose your momentum. One technique used by the professional gas-saving-folks is called "driving without brakes." One way to do this is to learn how the traffic lights work, to anticipate when they will change. You can do this with a simple stop watch.

While on the highway, avoid going over 65 miles per hour if possible. Also, using the cruise control on the highway can save fuel. But you shouldn't use cruise control in the city, especially in hilly areas.

Saving gasoline requires you to be attentive and be alert before and while driving. Why before? Because you may be able to save gasoline by starting to drive when you know you'll be able to drive continuously. For example, if you are parked in a lot near a traffic light you'll need to cross, you shouldn't start the car until you see that switch to green.

Another way to save fuel is to avoid using the air conditioner/heater when possible.

Remember that the essence of saving gasoline is the same logic used in saving money - being careful, planning ahead, and avoiding compulsive or rash decisions.