Ways to Increase Gas Mileage - 5 Tips that Will Drastically Improve Your Fuel Efficiency

Fuel is often considered a necessity as we need gasoline in our cars to get us to important destinations such as to work and school. However, when fuel costs increase we are often forced to shoulder the burden and find ways to increase the gas mileage on our cars.

While you might not have control over how gas is priced, there are ways that you can improve and even increase your car's fuel efficiency by simply driving slower, removing excess weight, properly maintaining your car and planning your trips ahead of time. Here are five tips that will help drastically improve your car's fuel efficiency.

1. Drive slower - Simply driving your car slower can significantly improve fuel efficiency. It has been shown that highway speeds of 55 mph compared to 75 mph increases your fuel efficiency rate by up to 25%. So not only does driving slower save in fuel costs, it will also keep you out of trouble from law enforcement.

2. Avoid excessive idling - Avoid stop and go traffic as much as you can. Leaving your engine to idle significantly reduces fuel efficiency. Whenever possible, be sure to plan out more fuel efficient routes that avoid traffic congestion.

3. Remove excessive weight - It is common knowledge that the reason that Sport Utility Vehicles get such low miles per gallon is simply because they weigh so much. In addition, a stronger engine is often needed to propel the vehicle forward. You can increase your car's gas mileage by removing any excess weight in your car by cleaning out any unnecessary clutter.

4. Keep your car properly maintained - Always make sure to take care of your car and to keep it properly maintained. This includes changing out your oil when needed and cleaning your air filter when it gets dirty. Incorrect fuel ratio and bad spark plugs can have a significant impact on gas mileage as well. Always take your car to a certified mechanic for daily checkups.

5. Plan your trips ahead of time - By planning your trips ahead of time, you can choose more fuel-efficient routes and when there are fewer vehicles on the road. Planning your trips will also prevent you from speeding to your destination.

It is important never to overlook these simple tips. One of these factors alone might not be enough for you to see a significant increase in gas savings, but combined together you can drastically improve your fuel efficiency and easily save yourself hundreds of dollars per year.