12 No-Brainer Ways To Save On Gas
Prices may be low for the moment, but come on now, do you think they'll stay that way? Be ready with these everyday tips.
Do you find yourself glancing nervously at gas pump prices, wondering when they're going to shoot up again? Me, too. Most of us with combustion engines have little choice; we suck it up and fill it up. If you live in a walkable city with good public transportation, count yourself lucky. If you don’t, you need to put yourself in a more frugal gear. This is especially true if you didn't get that Tesla for Christmas.
So here are 12 crazy-easy easy tips to help you beat the high cost of fuel, even if it's low at the moment.
1. Fluids – Many large and small automotive centers offer coupons to save on oil and fluid changes. Look for online printable coupons to automotive service centers to make it cheaper.
2. Tire inflation – Save up to 3.3% on your gas mileage when your tires are properly inflated. Stop into a tire or auto service center and get it checked for free, or guy a tire gauge and check the pressure on a regular basis.
3. Tune-ups– Keeping your vehicle properly tuned will boost your gas mileage by 4 percent, on average.
4. Air filters – If your car is older, make sure you clean the air filter. It will improve performance and acceleration on all vehicles.
5. Motor oil – Improve gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent by using the grade of motor oil recommended by the manufacturer for the season.
6. Gas cap – Damaged, loose or missing gas caps allow gas to vaporize into the air. Make sure yours is screwed on to the recommended number of “clicks.”
7. Carpool – If you alternate commute days, you’ll save wear and tear on your vehicle (which can lower your MPG). If you do the driving, you split fuel costs.
8. Fix it now – Addressing a serious maintenance problem like a faulty oxygen sensor can improve mileage by as much as 40 percent, according to fueleconomy.gov.
9. Drive smarter – Driving the speed limit, or at least not drag racing, burns less fuel. The same goes for jackrabbit starts and sudden braking.
10. Use loyalty programs – Some stores have deals that lower your price at the pump if you swipe a loyalty card or, in the case of Sam’s Club, use its gas pumps.
11 .Consolidate shopping trips - Plan a route to the stores you visit the most, such as the supermarket, dry cleaner and the gas station.
12. Do more online shopping – More and more merchants are delivering as needed or on a pre-set schedule. No need to drive and burn up that fuel!
When it comes to saving money on gas, every little bit helps. And little changes can add up to change in your pocket.
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