Article Advise

submitted: Aug 19th 2008 | by: CelinaPrince | Total views: 1 | Word Count: 751 | |

With gas prices shooting through the roof, there's no better time than now to explore different ways to save some money on gas. Just keep on reading if you want simple, cost-efficient ways to use less gas. These tips will keep your pockets happy and your gas tank full! They might even help you save a little extra money for that vacation you've been dreaming about.

Keep your vehicle in tip-top shape:

When your car isn't in the best running condition it tends to suck up a lot more gas! Regular tune-ups will ensure that your car is performing at its highest level and will help reduce gas usage. A dirty air filter can really have an effect on the performance and gas mileage of your vehicle, and should be changed according to the owner's manual that came with your car. Typically, air filters are very inexpensive and a clean one can save you a lot on gas! Even getting routine oil changes and monitoring your car's tire pressure can reduce fuel use and improve performance.

Stop driving a car that sucks up gas:

If you want to save some money, there's no better way than to buy a vehicle that gets great gas mileage. This may not be a possibility at the time, but it's something to consider when you're in the market for a vehicle. If you don't like the look of hybrid vehicles there are many other fuel-efficient cars to choose from that will fit your style and won't break you. It all depends on the amount you're looking to save and what kind of car you're interested in buying!

Search for the best gas prices:

Don't start driving all over town to find the station that's selling the cheapest gas! Instead, just go online and search your area for the cheapest gas stations. If they are too far from your home, don't waste the gas going there and back just to save a couple cents a gallon - that's defeating the purpose! Look for the stations that are closest to home or "on the way" and fill up at the cheapest one. Some of the best places to save on gas are wholesale stores, such as Costco or Sam's Club. If you're a member at a wholesale store near your home, you should consider filling up your tank there - you may be able to save up to 10 cents a gallon.

Behave yourself when you drive:

The way you drive can have the biggest effect on your gas mileage. If you drive at a constant speed and accelerate slowly you will use less gas. You can also save by braking sooner and giving yourself a longer distance to slow down before you come to an immediate stop. At fueleconomy.com they explain: "You can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon for gas." So slow down and set your cruise control!

Always obey the rules at the pump:

Always use the correct gasoline that your car requires for the best performance. If your car requires regular gasoline, using premium will not improve performance. You can get away with using regular in some premium tanks to save money, but this could lower performance levels and you should always check your owner's manual before you switch gasoline types. Listen to the instructions at every fuel pump and don't top off your tank - this can lead to overfilling and wasted gasoline! When you pay for your gas you should use a specific gas station credit card to save a couple of cents a gallon, as long as you won't forget to pay it off. Finally, don't forget to tighten your gas cap before you leave the station! You could end up wasting a lot of the gas you just put in your tank if your cap is loose.

Most importantly, avoid driving if you can:

When it comes down to it, the best solution to getting better gas mileage is to avoid driving. If you live a short distance from places that you frequent, try riding a bike or walking. If you need to get somewhere that is further away, ride the city bus. If you have to drive a car, carpool with someone who lives nearby. But if at all possible, just don't drive!

About the Author

Paige Bennett, a director in the field of marketing, is employed with Drive Time, one of the leading auto dealers providing used car loans to people with bad credit.

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