Rising gas and oil prices each year mean that the average driver, who travels approximately 15,000 miles each year in a car that gets about 20 miles to the gallon, will pay more at the end of the year for his gas costs.
Every time that the price of gas goes up at the fuel pump by 10 cents the cost of the average drivers gas consumption will rise by about $75 over a year.
Here are the Top 3 Ways to increase gas mileage & save money
Driving tips
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1. Before you start driving, make sure that your parking brake is fully released.
2. Use a block heater in winter to pre-warm your car engine.
3. Don't ride the brake. Drive with a smooth, constant speed.
4. Use a sunshade to keep your car cool and avoid the use of the air conditioner.
5. If you can't find a place to buy low priced gas on one day wait if you can until a few days later since the price of gas is constantly changing.
6. Buy your gas at the wholesale clubs, like Costco. Often you can save 10 cents or more a gallon. If you don't like the wholesale clubs get a gas credit card. You'll get a 1% to 5% discount when you buy that brand of gas.
Avoid buying gas from a just replenished gas station
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When a gas station has its underground tanks filled, the particles at the bottom of the tank are stirred up.
These particles can become mixed in with the gas that you are putting into your car, which can lead to efficiency problems. The particles can clog your fuel filter, causing your car to stall and start with some difficulty.
If the gas station that you have decided to stop at has the lowest gas price in your area you may want to think about taking the time to come back at a later time rather than stopping at the next gas station that is offering a higher price for gas.
Purchasing a Vehicle
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When you are purchasing a vehicle here are some things that you should keep in mind if you are thinking about fuel efficiency:
1. Buy a smaller vehicle that will meet your needs in the city. If you want a larger vehicle, that you won't be using on a daily basis, you might want to think about leasing one.
2. Consider putting yourself on the waiting list of the ever popular hybrid car. The amount of money that you'll save in fuel costs will pay off in a short amount of time.
3. Choose fewer of the "power" options that you are offered when you buy your new car. These power options include air conditioning, power windows, and automatic transmission.
4. Consider buying a two wheel drive if there is no real need for a four wheel drive vehicle.
