1. Sites such as MSN Autos, GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com list gas prices in specific areas across the country. A 25-cent difference means you pay $5 less for every fill-up of a 20-gallon tank, but sometimes the disparities are even greater.
2. Take the time to check your car's tire pressure each month. Under inflated tires reduce fuel efficiency by 2% for every pound they are under inflated. Under inflation also causes premature tire wear giving your tires a shorter use life. Consult your owner’s manual to find out your car’s optimal tire pressure (usually 32 lbs.)
3. Drive at the speed limit. Cars use about 20% more fuel driving at 70 miles per hour than they do at 55 miles per hour.
4. Avoid driving fast in low gears. Driving at high speeds in the improper gear can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 40%.
5. Avoid using air-conditioning whenever possible. Air conditioning reduces fuel economy by 10% to 20%.
6. Don't open windows when traveling at high speeds. Open windows on the highway can reduce fuel efficiency by 10%. It is much better to use the ventilation system. Also remember to remove car racks and other items that make your car less aerodynamic when they're not being used.
7. Use cruise control to maintain a steady pace on the highway to increase fuel economy. Avoid rough roads. Driving on roads made of dirt or gravel can reduce fuel economy by up to 30%.
8. Remove all excess weight from your car. Many people use their trunk as a storage space, adding unneeded pounds to the car's weight. This unnecessary weight reduces the car's fuel efficiency.
9. Try to accelerate gently, brake gradually and avoid stops when driving. Gunning engines, quickly accelerating, and abrupt stops all waste fuel. Try to avoid driving during rush hour periods when you know traffic will be stop and go. If you do find yourself in stop and go traffic, try to maintain a crawl. When approaching hills or steep slopes, accelerate before the hill. Accelerating once on the slope will consume much more gas.
10. The big warehouse stores--Costco, Sam's Club, BJ's Wholesale Club --typically offer some of the lowest gas prices in town. The downsides: You may find lines at the pumps, and the cost of membership (typically $40 to $45) will offset some of your savings if all you do is buy gas. But if you shop at these places anyway, the savings can be worthwhile.
Disclaimer: The information outlined in this flier may not be suitable for every individual, and are not guaranteed or warranted to produce any particular results. No warranty is made with respect to the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein, and DebtWave Credit Counseling specifically disclaim any responsibility for any liability, loss or risk, personal or otherwise, which is incurred as a consequence, directly or indirectly, of the use and application of any of the contents of this flier.
