With rising fuel prices, improving your car’s fuel efficiency is one of the smartest moves you can make to save money over time. Small changes to your driving habits and vehicle maintenance routine can significantly increase your miles per gallon (MPG). Here are ten proven strategies to help you get the most out of every tank, backed by authoritative sources like Consumer Reports.
- Drive Smoothly
Aggressive driving—such as rapid acceleration, speeding, and hard braking—can lower your gas mileage by up to 30% on highways and 40% in stop-and-go traffic, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Maintain a steady speed and avoid sudden changes whenever possible.
- Avoid Excessive Idling
Idling wastes fuel and contributes to unnecessary emissions. Consumer Reports recommends shutting off your engine if you expect to be stopped for more than a minute, such as waiting in a drive-thru or picking someone up.
- Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Under-inflated tires reduce fuel efficiency by about 0.2% for every 1 psi drop in pressure. Check your tire pressure monthly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level, which is typically found on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
- Use Cruise Control on Highways
Cruise control helps maintain a constant speed and is especially beneficial on flat highways. A consistent speed reduces the need for frequent acceleration and deceleration, which can boost fuel economy.
- Remove Excess Weight
Carrying extra weight in your vehicle, especially in the trunk, can decrease fuel economy. Every additional 100 pounds can reduce MPG by about 1%, according to Consumer Reports.
- Limit Roof Rack Use
Roof racks and carriers create aerodynamic drag, which can significantly lower your fuel efficiency. When not in use, remove roof racks to improve your car’s aerodynamics and MPG.
- Use the Right Motor Oil
Using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil can improve your gas mileage by 1% to 2%. Always choose “energy-conserving” oils when possible, which contain friction-reducing additives.
- Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance, such as timely oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug inspections, ensures your engine runs efficiently. A poorly maintained vehicle can decrease fuel economy by up to 4%.
- Plan and Combine Trips
Cold engines are less fuel-efficient than warm engines. Combining errands into one trip reduces the number of cold starts, helping you use less gas and save time.
- Use Apps to Find the Best Gas Prices
Apps like GasBuddy help you locate the cheapest gas stations near you, preventing overpaying at the pump. Pair this with savings strategies like using Fluz gift cards for additional cashback on fuel purchases at brands like Shell and BP.
Drive Smarter, Save More
Boosting your car’s fuel efficiency is not just about saving money—it is also about reducing wear and tear on your vehicle and minimizing your environmental impact. By adopting even a few of these proven strategies, you can extend your vehicle’s life and keep your fuel costs in check for the long haul.
