Some tips for getting better gas mileage

There are numerous ways to get more traveling distance for every penny you spend. To reach the point of optimum efficiency, the driver has to combine several techniques and implement driving styles that might not be suitable to his/her character. No frequent starts and sudden stops, keeping it 10 miles below the speed limit on the freeway, and using the A/C as little as possible can definitely get you further for your dollar. However these are what we call “active techniques”, things that the driver must pay attention to and follow in order to get results.

On the other hand, we have the “passive techniques”. These are things that do not require your attention as frequently, but can definitely boost your MPG on a daily basis.

Did you know that by having the correct pressure in your tires, you can save over 5c per gallon at the fuel pump? That’s over 3% of MPG improvement and it doesn’t require your attention more than once a month. Under inflated tires cause more rolling resistance, lowering both your gas mileage, and the safety and life of your tires. Using fuel efficient tires with low ressistance will further boost this figure.

Having a clean air filter will also help. Replacing the dirty filter with a fresh one can boost your mileage by up to 10%. That’s 17c per gallon at the fuel pump. Not to mention the “health” benefits of your engine, when the air going in is cleaner.

The heart. By “heart” we mean the engine. If the engine is out of tune, and there is a serious problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, this can cost you as much as 40% of your MPG figure. Problems like this are rare on modern vehicles, however, small repairs and tunes can improve your mileage by at least 4% or 7c per gallon.

Using the manufacturer’s recommended grade oil will translate to a boost of about 2%. That’s 3c per gallon.

So let’s do the math. Combined, these tips can save you as much as 27c per gallon on every refill. An average car has a tank capacity of 12 gallons. That would be over $3 on your next refill, or another 2 gallons or 50 miles for free if you will. And keep in mind that the percentages above are based on fuel that costs $1.66/gallon. In other words, your actual money saved will be higher.