Tips for Lowering Your Gas Bill
The price of gasoline has now passed $3.00 a gallon, and it’s only heading north from here. Tensions in the Middle East and problems with the Alaskan pipeline mean that now, more than ever, car owners have to be alert and resourceful to save on automobile expenses. Here’s a baker’s dozen worth of ideas to keep your hard–earned dollars out of your car’s tank and where they belong: in your pocket.
- Choose wisely – Pick your next automobile wisely. If you’re shopping for a car, consider not only the price tag, but also the long–term costs. Obviously, you want to consider gas mileage estimates, and there is a wealth of fuel–efficient vehicles to choose from. You may want to reconsider that SUV you’ve been eyeballing; it probably isn’t very economical at the pump. And don’t ignore a well–maintained used car. Pre–owned vehicles are not only cheaper, they also may save you money on insurance premiums. Finally, remember that light–colored cars stay cooler, reducing the need for air–conditioning.
- Get regular tune–ups – Regular maintenance keeps your auto running more efficiently. In fact, most mechanics recommend that car owners schedule tune–ups even earlier than the time frames recommended by the manufacturer.
- Pay attention to warning lights – Replace faulty oxygen sensors as soon as the warning light comes on. It’s easy to ignore or delay replacement because your car will continue to run smoothly. By doing so, however, car owners may sacrifice up to 40% of the car’s fuel efficiency, and that translates to big bucks.
- Replace your air filter – Dirty filters can add 10% to your car’s gasoline expenses.
- Check your tire pressure – Carry a tire pressure gauge and check your car’s tire pressure regularly. Under–inflated tires force your car to use more fuel. Every extra 2 PSI of under–inflation costs you an extra 1% of your car’s gasoline expense.
- Stop idling – Car idling is your enemy, so try to reduce it as much as possible. If you’re in your car waiting at the MacBurger drive–through for over 30 seconds, it’s cheaper for car owners to turn off the engine and go inside. (Plus, it’s a lot cooler inside.)
- Pace your driving – Although we always seem to be racing from place to place in our cars, remember – you’re not a NASCAR driver. Jack–rabbit starts, sudden stops and aggressive driving are brutal on your car’s gasoline bill. Driving at a steady pace, whenever possible, may save car drivers up to 33% on fuel expenses.
- Watch your speed – Our friends at the EPA say that driving your car at speeds over 60 greatly reduces your fuel efficiency. Driving at a slower pace helps your tires last longer and means you’ll be less likely to receive an insurance–raising speeding ticket. Use that often–neglected cruise control button on your car’s dashboard or steering wheel to keep your speed more constant.
- Consider your route – When planning the day of errands, consider how to shorten the route to reduce your time in the car and your total mileage. There’s nothing more wasteful (or irritating!) than having to turn your car around and drive back to somewhere from where you just came! Speaking of errands, try to use stores in the same shopping area whenever possible.
- Downgrade your “grade” – Don’t use premium gasoline when your car doesn’t really need it. Check the car owner’s manual to learn what the manufacturer recommends. Many people think premium is always better, but that’s just not so. And, automobile owners could be saving money at every fill up – which adds up over time.
- Compare prices – There may be cheaper gas for your car just a few blocks from where you usually go. Car owners should do some comparison shopping in their neighborhoods and look for websites that have listings of stations offering cheaper prices.
- Check out unfamiliar stations – Don’t be afraid of Brand X gasoline for your car. The lesser known gas companies usually sell the same quality product as the national brands, only at a lesser price – saving car owners more money.
- Use overdrive – When you operate your vehicle in overdrive, your engine speed is reduced, not only saving you money, but also reducing wear and tear on the car’s engine.
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