Saving on Gasoline – You and Your Car

Gasoline prices have been skyrocketing and this always makes people nervous. Gas stations are everywhere so when prices rise you see them over and over again. Although they are at historical highs the percentage of our take home pay that we spend on gasoline is very low historically. That being said we should still look for ways to use less gasoline. Less money on gas is still more money to spend on things we enjoy.

The first thing to look at is your driving lifestyle. Do you drive alone to work when you neighbors work in the same area you do? Try carpooling. I have done this in the past when it was available. The idea of cutting your gas usage in half should be appealing to anyone even if the inconvenience of coordinating with someone doesn't.

If you have the capability move closer to work or work closer to home. Many companies are allowing you to telecommute for one ore more days a week. Take advantage of these benefits. Statistics also show telecommuters are happier with their lives. Imagine not using any gasoline one or two days a week. That is a 20%-40% drop in usage.

I am fully guilty of running around a parking lot to find a better spot. If we are serious about saving gas we should just park in the first spot we find. While you are at it make sure to park in the shade. Gasoline can actually evaporate right out of your tank. The cooler shaded are keeps this to a minimum and also prevents you from having to use the AC as much.

Avoid idling. You just waste gas when you idle. If you idle for 30 seconds in a newer vehicle that is the same as starting the car once. So if you are going to be sitting for a few minutes turn you car off to save on fuel.

Do not fill the tank until you get to the last quarter. This allows you to drive with less fuel and thus less weight. The extra weight increase the friction on the tires and lowers your gas mileage. While you are at it get all the junk out of your trunk. The extra weight really does not help

Drive deliberately and slowly. The best fuel economy comes in the 40-45 mile per hour range. The faster you go the more wind resistance you get. When you go over 65 that is when the exponential effect of wind resistance really starts to kick in. I know its fun but slow down. To go with this idea try not to come to full stops if you do not have at red lights. Try to coast up and then accelerate after the light has turned green. The first 5 mph of acceleration use the most gasoline and friction also plays a factor here. Also, don't accelerate or brake quickly if possible and use cruise control when able.

On top of you lifestyle make sure your vehicle is in good condition. Getting a tune up regularly, checking the tire pressure every week, and getting a good quality air filter (and changing it on a regular interval) will all help your gas mileage. Always use the lowest recommended octane for your car. The manufacturers now make most vehicle for low octane. This is an easy way to save.

Using all or some of these ideas will really decrease the amount you pay for gasoline.  Tomorrow I will be discussing easy ways to get discounted gasoline.