One of the costs impossible to avoid in our days is the one with the fuel our cars burn day by day. If only there was a way to reduce this cost – which, even with the pronounced reduction of gas prices across the nation – make up an important share of what we spend every month. But wait, there are some things to consider that can vastly improve our cars’ fuel economy, reducing the amount we spend at the pump. Here are some tips to help.
1. Keeping a car in a good shape improves fuel economy
A car with a faulty engine, with dirty filters and dirty oil always consumes much more fuel than one that is maintained in a good shape. Engine troubles can reduce its performance, making it require much more fuel to offer the same performance. Dirty oil reduces friction, again contributing to the heightened fuel consumption. Not to mention the dirty air filter and the partially blocked exhaust, that also contribute to the car running on more gas.
I know that a periodical visit to a mechanic can be costly, but in the long run it costs much less than the loads of fuel consumed by the faulty engine – especially considering that some things – like changing oil or replacing dirty air filters – can be done at home. Maybe by a handy boyfriend or nice neighbor…
2. Keeping your tires well inflated reduces fuel consumption
According to a study, every five pounds per square inch (psi) of tire pressure you lose can translate into a two per cent loss of gas mileage. Translated into more “human” terms, this means that keeping your car’s tires inflated to their recommended pressure will help you save on gas in the long run. Don’t over-inflate your tires, though – besides not helping you at all with fuel economy, an overly inflated set of tires reduces the car’s handling and poses the risk of them blowing out on the road.
3. Keep your AC off while driving at low speeds
Air conditioning can increase your car’s fuel consumption by up to 20%, so when driving around the city at low speeds it’s the best choice to keep it off and travel with your windows down. Things change when you travel at high speeds, say on a highway – the drag caused by opening the windows at speeds of over 60 miles per hour reduces the car’s performance, so there is no significant difference between driving with your windows down or driving with your AC on.
With fossil fuels running low, not minding fuel efficiency is like betting blind in a microgaming casino – it will surely cost you money in the long run. Keep your dollars in your wallet, don’t let them fly out through your car’s exhaust…
