10 Gas Saving Tips

With gas prices more than a dollar a gallon higher than at this time last year, there is a concerted effort underway by most motorists to save money at the gas pump. Using coupons, car-pooling, taking fewer trips and finding alternative transportation are popular options. With that in mind, GasBuddy.com has put together Ten Fuel Saving Tips to help motorists stretch every gallon of gas:

1 Avoid High Speeds

As your speed increases, your aerodynamic drag increases in an exponential fashion. Driving 62 mph vs 75 mph will reduce fuel consumption by about 15%.

2 Do Not Accelerate or Brake Hard

By anticipating the traffic and applying slow steady acceleration and braking, fuel economy may increase by as much as 20%.

3 Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Keep tire air pressure at the level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer. A single tire under inflated by 2 PSI, increases fuel consumption by 1%.

4 Use A/C Sparingly

When the air conditioner is on it puts extra load on the engine forcing more fuel to be used (by about 20%). The defrost position on most vehicles also uses the air conditioner.

5 Keep Windows Closed

Windows open, especially at highway speeds, increase drag and result in decreased fuel economy of up to 10%.

6 Service Vehicle Regularly

Proper maintenance avoids poor fuel economy related to dirty air filters, old spark plugs or low fluid levels.

7 Use Cruise Control

Maintaining a constant speed over long distances often saves gas.

8 Avoid Heavy Loads

Remove the sand bags from your trunk in the spring and pack lightly for long trips.

9 Avoid Long Idles

If you anticipate being stopped for more than 1 minute, shut off the car. Restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle for this time.

10 Purchase a Fuel Efficient Vehicle