How to Save Money on Gas

Fuel prices are always going up and down. We cheer when they go down and get real depressed when they go up. No matter what the cost of fuel is, it is always important to know how to save money on gas. So here are some tips that you can use to help cut your fuel costs.

1. Watch your braking! How many times have you been in traffic and you see someone punch the gas to get to the next stoplight as fast as possible, only to slam on their brakes when they get there? We have all witnessed behavior like this as we drive – some of us might even be guilty of doing it ourselves. A car consumes the most gas when it accelerates, it doesn’t take much gas to keep a car going though. When you are in heavy traffic you can easily maintain your speed by keeping distance between your car and the one in front of you. By keeping your eye on the line of cars in front of you, it is possible to anticipate slowing traffic. You can then control your speed with the accelerator – not the brake. You will get 10 to 20% better gas mileage in traffic if you do this.
2. Turn of the air conditioning. Now I admit, I think air conditioning is one of the greatest inventions ever! But then, I live in a very hot, desert area. But the air conditioning really makes your engine work harder and can bring down your gas mileage. You can use the A/C, but do it conservatively. Park in the shade, roll down then windows when driving in stop and go traffic or through town. Turn it off when you are 5 miles from your destination. Your car will stay cool, and you won’t overwork the engine!
3. Reduce the weight! How many of use carry around a bunch of stuff in our trunks or the back of our vehicle? All that stuff weighs down the car and causes the engine to work harder to pull the extra bulk. An empty trunk makes for a happy car!
4. Turn it off! When you are stopped at a railroad crossing, a drive up window, or while waiting for a friend, shut the car off. If your car will be idling for more than 30 seconds, it will save gave to turn it off and start it up again.

Saving fuel also helps our environment, and we should all do our part. Keep these tips in mind so you can save money on gas!