5 Surprising Tips for Improving Fuel Economy

The price of gas. It’s the subject on the minds of many people every single day. Gone are the days when you could fill the tank for $20 (or less). Because of the rise in fuel costs over the last decade, today’s drivers are left with questions about how they can lower their fuel usage and, in turn, the money they spend at the pump.

How To Improve Fuel Economy

Fuel economy is the key to this. What is fuel economy? Fuel economy is the number of miles you can drive in your car on one gallon of gas. If you are wondering how to increase fuel economy for your car, check out these surprising tips.

1. Inflate Your Tires

Are your tires looking a little low? As you are learning how to maximize fuel economy, don’t neglect your tires. Under-inflated tires can lower your fuel economy by as much as 25 percent! Grab the owner’s manual, and fill up the tires to the proper pressure. While you’re at it, consider having them balanced and aligned to add more improvement.

2. Choose a Different Commute Time

If you can change your hours at work, aim for a commute during lighter traffic times. The less time you spend idling on the road, the less fuel you will waste.

3. Lighten the Load in the Car

With every 250 pounds you have in the car, you will lose approximately one mile per gallon in fuel economy. While you don’t want to throw out a couple of kids to improve fuel economy, you may want to clean out the trunk. That sporting gear you keep stashed there for Saturday hockey practice? Take it out until you actually need it to avoid this unexpected problem.

4. Focus on Maintenance

If you are serious about learning how to maximize fuel economy, make sure you maintain your car properly. Maintenance makes a big difference in improving fuel economy. For instance, a dirty air filter can reduce your fuel economy by as much as 22 percent.

5. Buy Gas in the Morning

Gas pumps measure the volume of the gas, not its density, and gas is denser when the air temperature is cooler, which is typically in the morning. Strategically purchase your gas to see a small boost in fuel economy.

In summary, if you are wondering how to improve fuel economy in a car, consider these strategies:

• Inflate your tires

• Choose a different commute time

• Lighten the load in the car

• Focus on maintenance

• Buy gas in the morning

By keeping these tips in mind, you will eke out every possible mile per gallon in your car.