It’s true that gas prices have taken a nice dip in the last year, but that doesn’t mean that it’s not a big monthly expense, especially in a city that has its fair share of traffic problems. Fuel economy is an art form. Maximizing it means balancing several factors—and the more you optimize, the more money you save. Here are some ways you can get the most from your gas mileage using the right driving skills, especially with the inevitable rise of price per gallon on the horizon.
Avoid Hard Stops
Most people have heard that hard stops aren’t good—and that’s true for several reasons. The most obvious reason is how hard stops affect your brakes. However, hard stops also really affect your fuel economy. The kinetic energy used to brake hard is fueled by your precious gas. If you are able to coast to a stop, do it. This can be achieved more regularly by leaving some distance between you and the car in front of you. Nobody likes a tailgater anyway.
Resist the Need for Speed
Nothing uses up MPG like going over 60. The next time you have the urge to fly down the freeway at high speeds, save yourself the gas money (and the price of the ticket) by going the posted speeds. Research shows that cars get the best mileage when traveling between 45 and 60 miles per hour. Hint: Keep your windows closed when going higher speeds. It’s officially proven, the aerodynamic drag costs more than the A/C when going fast.
Keep it in the Vehicle
If you have a roof rack, storage box or anything else on top of your car, only use it when you need it. That reduction of smooth aerodynamics works against your MPG. If you can stow it in the trunk, it’s better on your pocketbook.
Idling and Revving is Not Cool
Sure, you want to play out a scene from The Fast and the Furious, or maybe you want to sit and wait for someone in the cool A/C, but idling and revving both use up plenty of gas.
Avoid Rush Hour
Another reason to convince your company to let you work from home is the amount of gas it takes to stop, go, accelerate, brake and idle during heavy traffic. If there is any way possible to avoid the rush times—your car will be better for it, both in terms of maintenance and gas mileage.
Check Your Tires Regularly
By keeping your tires even and optimally full, you can increase your fuel efficiency. Correctly filled tires can actually improve fuel economy by up to 3%.
Calm Down
The smoother you drive, the better your MPG. When you accelerate, slow down, brake hard and make jerky movements, it can affect your fuel economy greatly. Take a deep breath and go with the flow. Your car, wallet and fellow drivers will thank you.
When Not to Turn on the A/C
If it’s not 120 out and you are cruising at neighborhood speeds, that’s an excellent time to shut down the A/C and roll down the windows of your ride. Share your music, say hey to the neighbors and save on gas.
Reduce the Clutter
Every pound you add to your vehicle means less fuel efficiency. If you don’t need it, don’t put it in your car.
Don’t Accelerate Too Slowly
You don’t want to put the pedal to the medal, but you don’t want to crawl to high speeds either. Experts say the sweet spot of acceleration differs with each vehicle, but it’s definitely better to go 0 to 50 in 15 seconds than in 30 seconds. Of course, if you have a Ferrari, by all means make it 5 seconds.
Use That Cruise Control
Cruise control was designed to make your driving more efficient. If you can use it, do it. It will help optimize how much you save on fuel.
Your driving skills will make a big difference in your fuel economy, but also remember how you treat your vehicle will as well. Make sure to regularly maintain your car and read the manual to see tips and instructions on how to make your vehicle get the most for your money.
