6 Quick Tips to Save Fuel

By Mac A

Tire Pressure

How long has it been since you've checked your vehicle's tire pressure? If your tires are below the recommended level, you could be costing yourself money each time you fill up your tank. On average, a tire will lose around 1 pound per square inch (psi) every month. Less pressure in your tires means more friction/rolling resistance on the road, which makes your engine work harder to keep you moving. At the minimum, be sure to check your vehicle's tire pressure monthly.

Fuel Cap

If your fuel cap is damaged, or will not secure tightly, get a replacement or have it fixed as soon as possible. Fuel caps that are damage or don't properly seal result in the loss of millions of gallons of fuel each year from evaporation.

Slow Down

Your vehicle's fuel economy decreases exponentially at higher speeds. Driving 65 on the highway instead of 75 could reduce your fuel consumption by as much as 10%! Your trip will not take much longer, and you'll be saving money the whole way.

Air Conditioning

Air conditioning puts an increased load on your engine, which results in greater fuel usage. On the same token, driving with your windows down at highway speeds increases drag and reduces fuel economy. For city driving at speeds of 45mph or lower, however, rolling down your windows in lieu of air conditioning will save you a little extra on gas.

Clean out the Clutter

Amongst all the chores, vacations, sports events and shuttling, it's quite easy to end up with 50 to 100 pounds of extras in your trunk or storage compartment space. The more weight your vehicle is carrying, the harder the engine has to work when accelerating. Make sure to clean out your trunk and cargo space regularly to keep that extra stuff from weighing you down.

Air Filter

Like all of us, your engine has to breathe, and a dirty or clogged air filter can adversely affect performance and economy. Replacing an old, dirty air filter with a new one can improve your vehicle's gas mileage by 5-10%. The next time you take your vehicle in for general servicing, ask the technician if the air filter should be replaced.

Mac Allen is the manager of Texaco Xpress Lube in Kernersville, NC, providing first class oil change and general vehicle service in the Kernersville, NC area. Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mac_A.