Driving a car can be pricey. You need to pay for maintenance, auto insurance premiums and fuel to keep the vehicle running. Saving money on fuel is one of the easiest ways to cut the costs of car ownership, and you don’t have to buy a hybrid to do so. Cut your fuel costs with these tips.
Pump Up Your Tires
If your car’s tires are under-inflated, you’ll use more gas when driving. According to "Good Housekeeping," tires that are under-inflated by 7.5 pounds are 2.8 percent less fuel efficient than fully inflated tires. Spend a few minutes every week or so checking out, and filling up, your tires, as need.
Clear Out Your Car
The more stuff your car has to lug around, the more fuel it will use. Reduce fuel costs by clearing any items you don’t need to bring with you out of the backseat and trunk of your car. You can increase your car’s fuel efficiency by 2 percent for every 100 pounds of stuff you clear out, according to the US Department of Energy.
Drive Better
Improving your driving means improving your fuel efficiency. There’s no need to speed, as it reduces your car’s efficiency. Driving very slowly also burns more gasoline, as your car stays in a lower gear. Slamming on your brakes to come to a quick stop also reduces your fuel efficiency, as does accelerating rapidly.
Maintain Your Vehicle
Bring your car in for regular inspections and repairs to keep it running its best, and most efficiently. Replace your air filter regularly and make sure your car’s tires are aligned to use less gasoline when you drive.
Get a Loyalty Card
If the gas station you use more often offers a loyalty card, there’s no reason not to sign up. You might get a discount on gas or other perks. If you pay with a credit card, pick one that offers perks for gas purchases, such as cash back or extra bonus points.
In the Greater Phoenix area, contact Phocus Companies for information on auto insurance policies and other ways to improve your car’s fuel efficiency.
