Most drivers understand the struggle of watching gas prices creep up. But despite the rising costs of fuel, there are some simple ways to stretch each gallon of fuel a little further if you know the right tips and tricks.
What’s more, improving fuel efficiency is more than just good for your wallet; it’s also a good thing for the environment. Even small changes in how we drive and maintain our cars can add up to big savings in cost and emissions over time. Here are some practical solutions to help you save money at the pump.
Key Fuel-Efficient Driving Habits (Bonus: That Also Make You a Safer Driver!)
Believe it or not, driving the way your parents always wanted you to can actually help you with fuel efficiency.
Moderate Your Speed
Sometimes, we’re just in a rush and gotta get where we’re going — and quick. But did you know that slowing down from 75 mph to 65 mph can improve your fuel efficiency by up to 20%? That might be the extra motivator to leave 20 minutes earlier for your next destination.
Most cars start to lose fuel efficiency once they go over 50 mph, and every 5 mph above that adds about $0.22 per gallon in fuel costs. So next time you’re on the road, try leaving a bit earlier and easing off the pedal a little more — it can save you a surprising amount of money and help you avoid those dreaded speeding tickets!
Avoid Rapid Acceleration and Braking
Quick starts and hard stops can take a toll on your fuel tank. By accelerating smoothly and braking gently, you’re helping your car use less gas, which means fewer trips to the pump, fewer emissions in the atmosphere and better driving habits.
Use Cruise Control on Highway
On long highway trips, cruise control can be your best friend. This feature keeps your car at a steady speed without needing to press the gas pedal, which helps you avoid wasting fuel and risking a ticket with constant speed changes.
Limit Idling Time
We all find ourselves waiting in the car occasionally, but did you know idling can waste around 20% of a gallon every 10 minutes? If you’re going to be stopped for more than a minute, it’s better to turn off the engine and put your windows down. Be sure your car is completely turned off because leaving it partially on could drain your battery, leaving you at risk of a dead battery and potentially being stranded.
Easy But Important Vehicle Maintenance Tips
Get Regular Tune-ups and Replacements
Regular maintenance has a big impact on fuel consumption. Clean air filters improve airflow, helping your engine burn fuel more efficiently. Fresh spark plugs ensure smooth and complete combustion, which reduces the fuel needed to power your car. Routine engine tune-ups keep everything running at peak performance, preventing unnecessary fuel waste.
Check Tire Pressure Regularly
Underinflated tires create more resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder and burn more fuel. Keeping your tires properly inflated can improve your gas mileage by up to 3%. Make it a habit to check your tire pressure once a month, and you’ll keep your ride smoother and your wallet a little fuller.
Replace or Clean Your Fuel and Air Filters
Dirty filters can choke your engine, reducing airflow and fuel efficiency. Get your filters checked regularly and replace or clean them as needed. You’ll improve combustion and help your engine run more smoothly.
Reduce Weight and Aerodynamic Drag
Limit Excess Weight
Got a little too much junk in your trunk? Every extra pound in your vehicle requires more fuel to move, so clearing out unnecessary items like those golf clubs or that stash of tools can be one of the easiest and most inexpensive ways to boost your fuel economy.
Lower Drag by Managing Roof Racks
Roof racks are handy, but they can also increase aerodynamic drag, especially at higher speeds. If you don’t need them for your trip, take them off. They’ll make your car more fuel-efficient and quieter, too.
Boost Your Fuel Economy With Smart Fuel Usage
Track Your Fuel Consumption and Miles Per Gallon (MPG)
Tracking how many miles you get per gallon can clue you into any changes that might need attention. If you notice your MPG suddenly dropping, it’s worth checking things out under the hood. Sometimes, it’s something simple to fix, like low tire pressure or a clogged air filter.
Use Fuel-Cleaning Additives Sparingly
Fuel additives can help keep your injectors clean, but a little goes a long way. It’s best to use them as recommended since overusing won’t improve fuel economy and can be wasteful.
Other Practical Tips for Fuel Efficiency
Plan and Combine Trips
Got a bunch of errands to run? Try planning a route that cuts down on backtracking. By grouping stops and taking the most efficient route, you’ll save time and use less fuel.
Consider Long-Term Replacement Parts for High-Mileage Cars
If your car has more than 100,000 miles on it, it might be time to consider a few upgrades to keep it running smoothly and fuel-efficiently. Replacing parts like spark plugs, fuel injectors or even upgrading to high-efficiency tires can help improve performance and save on fuel.
For those putting in a lot of miles, these upgrades or investing in a more fuel-efficient model can pay off in the long run by cutting down on fuel costs and reducing the need for costly repairs down the road.
Why Fuel Efficiency Matters
You Can Save More and Spend Less
Fuel prices can feel unpredictable, but one thing you can help control a little more is how far each gallon takes you. While some of these money-saving tips may come with an initial investment, they pay off by saving you at the pump and reducing wear on your car — meaning fewer repairs and a longer vehicle life. The money you save can go toward things you actually enjoy, like a weekend getaway, upgrades for your car or simply balancing your budget.
You Can Make a Positive Impact
Using less fuel is good for your wallet and the planet. Burning less fuel means putting fewer emissions into the air, which helps reduce pollution and lower your carbon footprint. Even small changes in driving habits and maintenance can add up to a big difference over time.
Let The Detroit Garage Help You Stay Fuel Efficient
Make your vehicle more fuel-efficient and cut down on trips to the pump by keeping your car maintenance up to date with our experienced technicians at The Detroit Garage. From tire checks to engine tune-ups and more, our expert maintenance services can help you get the most out of every dollar you spend on gas.
Make an appointment today and start saving on every mile you drive.
