How to save gas: Tips for a fuel-efficient lifestyle
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Gas prices fluctuate throughout the year, rising especially in certain seasons. Given the price volatility, it makes sense to find ways to save gas whenever possible. Fortunately, small changes in driving habits and car maintenance can significantly reduce your fuel consumption. Here are some tips and tricks curated from experts and studies that can help you achieve a more fuel-efficient drive.
Use technology and programs to your advantage
Fuel-saving apps: Various apps like GasBuddy, Waze, and Fuelzee can help you locate the cheapest gas prices in your area.
Rewards programs: Many gas stations offer loyalty programs that can save you money on every gallon of gas purchased. Some grocery store rewards programs also offer fuel discounts.
Rewards credit cards: Choosing a credit card with cash back or rewards on gas purchases can help you save even more, as long as you pay off the balance each month to avoid interest charges.
Cash payments: Many gas stations offer a lower price for cash payments as it saves them credit card processing fees.
Driving habits that save gas
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Ride-sharing: Carpooling with coworkers or organizing rides for children’s activities can significantly reduce your weekly fuel consumption.
Route planning: Combining errands into a single trip and using eco-friendly routing on navigation apps can minimize drive time and save fuel.
Reducing idle time: Avoid leaving your car idling for extended periods; it burns fuel without getting you anywhere.
Smooth acceleration and deceleration: Accelerating slowly and allowing your car to coast to a stop whenever possible can save gas.
Using cruise control: On flat terrains, using cruise control can help maintain a steady speed and improve fuel efficiency.
Vehicle maintenance for better fuel economy
Proper tire pressure: Keeping tires inflated to the manufacturer's recommended level can improve gas mileage by up to 3%.
Regular tire alignment and rotation: Aligned and evenly worn tires reduce drag, which may lead to improved fuel efficiency in some cars.
Timely replacement of spark plugs and air filters: If you have an older car, worn spark plugs or dirty air filters can significantly decrease your car’s gas mileage. Most modern cars are much better at balancing the air-to-fuel flow. But dirty air filters can weigh down your acceleration efficiency.
Using the correct oil grade: Opting for the manufacturer-recommended oil grade during changes can slightly improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Using the wrong oil can even decrease your fuel efficiency.
Lightening your load: Remove unnecessary items from your car. Extra weight can decrease gas mileage efficiency.
Additional tips
Minimize the use of air conditioning: Using AC less often can save fuel, though at high speeds, using AC is better than opening windows due to aerodynamic drag.
Park in the shade: Reducing heat may help with fuel evaporation and reduce the need to cool down the car using the air conditioner.
Plan routes strategically: Get to know the gas stations and prices around your usual driving routes or for upcoming travel. When you’re low on gas, fuel up at the one you know is usually the cheapest – as long as it doesn’t mean driving much further.
Consider going electric. While EVs and hybrid vehicles may initially cost more upfront, they require less gasoline. Many also come with EV tax benefits.
For a comprehensive understanding of how these and other strategies can help you save on gas, it's beneficial to refer to resources like FuelEconomy.gov. This government website offers a wide range of tips and tools to help you achieve the best fuel economy possible for your vehicle
FAQs about how to save gas
Q: Is it better to fill up the gas tank all at once or little by little?
A: It's more efficient and cost-effective to fill up your gas tank all at once rather than filling it up in small increments. Fewer trips to the station means less gas. But it also means fewer fees that can rack up when you pump.
Q: Does driving slower really save gas?
A: Yes, driving at a consistently slower speed can improve your fuel efficiency. Every 5 mph over 50 mph that you drive decreases gas mileage. This means that driving at 55 mph instead of 65 mph can save you money on gas.
Q: Will premium gasoline make my car more fuel-efficient?
A: Unless your car specifically requires premium gasoline, using it will not improve your fuel efficiency. Stick to the recommended grade of gas for your vehicle.
Q: Does using cruise control save gas?
A: Yes, on flat terrains, using cruise control can help maintain a steady speed and improve fuel efficiency.
Q: How can I find the cheapest gas prices in my area?
A: You can use fuel-saving apps like GasBuddy, Waze, and Fuelzee to locate the cheapest gas prices. Additionally, many gas stations offer loyalty programs or rewards credit cards that can also help you save money on gas.
Want more tips and tricks on saving money and living a budget-friendly lifestyle? Visit the Greenlight Learning Center for helpful resources on all things family, finance, and fun.
This blog post is provided "as is" and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional advice. Some content in this post may have been created using artificial intelligence; however, every blog post is reviewed by at least two human editors.
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