Did you know that how you drive can actually cause your vehicle to burn through a full tank of gas or diesel fuel more quickly? There are ways you can save gas when you are driving your automobile. One of the best ways to maintain your vehicle’s fuel economy is to maintain your automobile. Ideal Automotive can help you with your vehicle maintenance and offers seven additional gas-saving tips below.
1. Slow Down
We know that is fun to drive fast, but slowing down conserves fuel. According to AAA, your fuel economy is at its best when you are driving 50 mph. As you pick up speed on the highways, keep in mind that you can boost your fuel economy by as much as 14 percent if you drive at the speed limit or slower.
2. Take it Easy
If you put the pedal to the metal when it’s time to go and brake hard, you are wasting gasoline. Conservative drivers who take it easy on their automobiles can boost their fuel economy by as much as 30 percent. If you’re stuck in traffic, taking it easy can increase your fuel economy by 40 percent.
3. Avoid Idling
When you are stuck in a long line in the drive-thru, you can waste gasoline while you are sitting at an idle. It’s a better idea to turn off your engine if you are going to be sitting anywhere for more than a minute. If you leave your engine idling, you will burn through your gasoline more quickly.
4. Avoid Traffic
If your job offers flex hours so you can avoid driving in stop-and-go traffic, take advantage of this alternate schedule to save gasoline. Sitting in traffic reduces your vehicle’s fuel economy. Working a flex schedule so you are commuting when there isn’t traffic will boost your vehicle’s fuel economy.
5. Time Your Travel
Anticipating what is coming up not only makes it safer to drive your automobile but also increases your fuel economy. For example, if you are driving on city streets, adjust your speed so you hit the traffic lights on green and don’t have to stop.
6. Use Cruise Control
If your vehicle is equipped with cruise control, use it. Cruise control keeps your speed consistent, and this saves gas in the end. The only time you shouldn’t use cruise control is if the roads are wet and slippery. Using cruise control in these conditions can cause you to lose control of your automobile.
7. Don’t Warm Up
Finally, turning on your engine and allowing it to warm up wastes gas or diesel fuel. Rather, start your vehicle and then drive slowly to warm up your engine. This boosts your fuel economy and helps you get more mileage out of a full tank.
As we mentioned above, keeping your vehicle maintained will also ensure that the engine runs efficiently and, as such, will boost your fuel economy. Ideal Automotive in Blaine, MN, can help. Call us today to schedule an appointment.
