Are you feeling the squeeze on the ever inflating gas prices?
Does the thought of $5.00 a gallon (or more) for gas put a big hole in your pocket?
In this article you'll learn how to cut your gasoline consumption by one third!
There are many ways to conserve fuel.
Here are a few that have worked for me to cut one third off my gas bill.
For starters, drive slower.
I have noticed a great increase in gas mileage by driving 60-70 miles per hour, as opposed to driving 75-80 miles per hour.
Miles per gallon specifications on vehicles are determined by driving 55 miles per hour.
The next time you feel the need for speed, think of your wallet.
Coast whenever possible!
Do you drive up and down mountains?
When traffic permits, and if the hills are not to steep, put your car in neutral while going downhill.
When the hill starts to level off, gently put your car back into gear again.
Avoid jack rabbit starts.
Don't be the first to race off after a red light turns green.
When your stuck in a big traffic jam, you may want to turn off your engine.
Avoid unnecessary idling, (we'll all breathe easier).
Lighten the load!
Dump all that junk in your trunk.
Don't overload your car.
Everyone wants to ride for free!
If you must ride with all of your friends in your car, ask them to contribute for gas.
Keep your tires slightly over inflated!
By adding 2-3 PSI more than normal on each tire, you'll reduce drag.
Use your air conditioning sparingly.
Maintain your vehicle!
The elusive oxygen sensor.
Most driver's overlook the oxygen sensor, until the "Service Engine Soon" light comes on.
Depending on the year, make and model of your vehicle, you may have 1-4 oxygen sensors.
Older vehicles may have only 1 sensor, while newer vehicles will have 2 or more sensors.
Check your vehicle service manual to determine how many sensors you have, and the location of each sensor.
Oxygen sensors are fairly easy to replace yourself.
They are similar to spark plugs in appearance.
You'll need a special socket wrench to replace them since they have a wire protruding from the top.
Oxygen sensors may still work when almost used up, but they won't be efficient.
If your vehicle has close to 100,000 miles on it, change the oxygen sensors.
I would recommend buying sensors at an auto parts store as opposed to auto dealers, since auto parts stores are usually cheaper.
Another overlooked item is the air filter.
Even a partially clogged air filter will rob you of gas mileage.
Air filters are fairly inexpensive and easy to replace.
Throw a bottle of fuel injector cleaner in the tank every 15,000 miles.
Fuel injector cleaner will keep your fuel injectors and lines clean.
Change that oil!
Dirty oil will add unnecessary friction to your engine.
I change my oil every 2,500 miles, which is once a month for me.
In the summer time switch to a heavier oil or use a synthetic blend.
Change those spark plugs!
Platinum spark plugs may claim to last 100,000 miles, but I've seen them foul up at just 75,000 miles.
Spark plugs are relatively inexpensive and (depending on the vehicle) easy to replace.
If you're not that handy or mechanically inclined, read some auto repair books or be-friend a mechanic.
One last thing, it is better to gas up early in the morning.
Gas tanks are cooler in the morning, giving you a more concentrated fuel (more bang for your buck, so to speak).
Believe me, when you drive over 600 miles a week like I do, you'll find ways to save on gas.
I hope this article will save you money on gas.
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