Surviving with High Gas Prices: Surefire Ways to Save Fuel and Money

Every morning, I watch the television, and it seems like gas prices continue to rise. The fact is they are not going to go down, and there is not much that we as consumers can do about it, right? Well, I guess the best answer is, "kind of."

Here are some ideas that might help you to save fuel in your vehicle.

1. When waiting in the car, use the windows and turn off the motor instead of using the air conditioning.

2. Similiar to #1, try to park in a garage or some kind of sheltered area. This will avoid you having to start your car and let it run to cool down in the summer or warm up in the winter.

3. Try to park further away in parking lots and walk, avoiding traffic at all cost. Remember, the more you sit and idle, the more gas you are using.

4. A guy told me this one when I picked up a pizza one time! Make sure to ask your mechanic or auto parts supplier about filters which will help with gas mileage. There are several, and they do make a difference.

5. Try to stop and start your car as little as possible (stop signs etc) The more you step on the accelerator, the more fuel your car is using.

6. Think fuel efficiency when buying a new car. Even though you might want the van for the family vacations, would it be possible to take the trip in a 4 door sedan and put a luggage carrier on top?

7. Try to plan ahead for any trip you are taking in your vehicle. Make sure you buy enough to get you through 3 - 4 days instead of just enough to get by.

8. Keep a close eye on cars which run on electricity and alternative fuels. These are becoming more common all the time.

9. Car pool when possible. Try to find out people from work who live in the same area as you and have a similiar schedule.

10. Make sure to get oil changes every 3 monthes or 3000 miles. When you take the vehicle in, take it to a dealership and not a quick lube place. It is cheaper at the dealership and they are more likely to know what to look for in the maintenance of your car. Always tell them you want the fuel lines checked for leaks.

These are just a few ideas to help you with gas prices. It doesn't make fuel any cheaper, but it may help it go farther for you.

Thanks for reading!!!!