Simple Tips for Increasing Fuel Economy

There's nothing I dread these days more than a trip to the gas station. With the gas price point hovering above $4 a gallon and no relief in sight, drivers are looking for ways to increase miles per gallon. Because of the weak economy, most folks are unable to purchase a fuel-efficient or hybrid vehicle even if they had the money. Even so, there are many things a savvy consumer can do to stretch the amount of gas they have at their disposal and increase fuel economy.

First of all, drive sensibly. Curb your urge to jack rabbit accelerate. It might look cool to lay rubber, but doing so wastes gasoline. Take off from lights and stop signs slowly and smoothly. As soon as your vehicle reaches the desired speed, make use of coasting. That's right; take your foot off the gas until you really need it. When approaching a stop, slow down well in advance and avoid slamming on the brakes. According to the government's fuel economy web site, driving sensibly could save up to 33%.

Next, drive the speed limit. You might look like granny, but you will get better mileage if you do. While vehicles vary with regard to the optimum speed and mileage, so pay close attention to your own vehicle. The estimated miles per gallon put out by automakers is an estimate only, based on tests performed on various models under the best conditions. You'll likely not be able to duplicate the same conditions and results, but you can determine your car's best speed. Keep a small notebook in the car and log in your mileage. If you have a car with an odometer that measures your car's mileage, take advantage of the technology to assess your automobile. Simply by driving the speed limit, you can net up to a 23% savings.

Avoid excessive idling. Manufacturers and drivers of hybrids (like me) have taken advantage of this as part of the design of the car. My car's engine automatically shuts off if I'm stopped at a light. If you can't afford a hybrid, you can still save gas. If you know you're going to be stopped for a significant amount of time, turn off your car's engine. Turning off the car's engine works especially well with vehicles equipped with larger engines.

Get rid of excess weight. I don't mean the weight of the driver, but you can always use it as an excuse! These days, our cars are places to eat, work and play. Some people use their vehicle as a closet. Seriously, if you don't need the items, get them out of the car. Every 100 pounds of extra weight costs about 2% in mileage.

Use air conditioning wisely. Experts tell us to turn it off if you don't need it. Try to use your vent option when possible. However, remember that driving with the windows open increases drag and lowers fuel economy. Use your best judgment in keeping yourself comfortable.

Make use of your car's overdrive gears and cruise control. Just about every car has them. Overdrive will increase your fuel economy, and implementing cruise control takes the guesswork out of the equation. Make use of the features of your automobile in order to gain the best fuel economy.

Keep up the vehicle maintenance. Fuel economy is vastly improved with proper tune-ups, periodic oil changes, and clean air filters. Use the oil recommended for your vehicle. Make sure your wheels are aligned. Don't forget to rotate your tires and keep them properly inflated.

Carefully plan your car trips. For local trips, make sure you combine the trips so that you are not retracing your route. Consider joining a carpool, using public transportation (if available), walking or biking. For long distance trips, pack lightly. Remember that roof top luggage carriers increase drag and will reduce your miles per gallon. Travel during off-peak hours if you are able. Traffic is lighter during off-peak hours and there will be less stop and go.

Be wary of new "inventions" that promise increased fuel economy. Mechanical and electric gadgetry, while tempting to try, should be checked out thoroughly before purchase. There is no easy cure for increasing miles per gallon. Most of the tips above require common sense, changing bad driving habits and a little forethought.

Finally, consider buying a fuel efficient vehicle. The last gas mini-crisis in 2005 had me rethinking my sleek, beautiful Monte Carlo. I loved that car, but it was a gas hog. When shopping for a new vehicle, make sure you buy something that fits your lifestyle and driving habits. If you do a lot of city driving like I do, a hybrid like a Prius might be better. If most of your miles are racked up on the highway, a small gasoline powered car might be a better bet.