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AutoMD’s 10 Tips on How to Save Gas

  1. Use the factory recommended fuel grade for your vehicle.
    The engine in your car was designed to be used with a specific fuel octane rating. You can find this in the vehicle manual, usually located in your glove compartment or a sticker on the fuel tank filler cap. For example, if your recommended rating is 89, using 91 octane will have no effect on fuel efficiency or engine performance. This is because the engine will adapt to the different octane by changing the timings and combustion rate of the fuel, and this can actually lead to a decrease in fuel economy. So stick to the recommended rating to get the best MPG.
  2. Buy gas in the morning or at night.
    Just like air, gas expands in a hot environment which means you would be buying less fuel and more fumes on a hot day than you would while it was cold. Since gas stations only measure the volume, not the density, you get a bit more for your money during these times.
  3. Fillup at busy gas stations
    A busy station usually means that the fuel is fresher and less like have been sitting for a long time. Fuel is stored in underground tanks and can slowly degrade if left for long, the sediment can build up quickly and can be harmful to your vehicle's fuel system if it makes inside your tank.
  4. Consistently change air/fuel filters.
    Your car uses disposable filters to clean both the air and the fuel coming into the engine. Over time these filters can get clogged, reducing the amount of air and fuel flowing through them. Dirty filters can also contaminate your engine with dirt and other particles if the filter A clean fuel filter promotes smooth fuel flow through out the vehicle. A clean air filter promotes more clean air flowing through your vehicle which leads to less drag and better fuel efficiency.
  5. Drive at a steady speed
    Try to avoid stop and go traffic when possible and cruise at a safe and even speed when on the freeway. Accelerating uses a lot of fuel since your engine has to work harder to pull the car, however a set speed allows to engine to just use enough fuel to keep the car moving.
  6. Get an alignment
    Property wheel alignment is important for not only for drivability but it also ensures that your car rolls along the road with the least amount of resistance. Good alignment will also give your car better traction and improve handling, while increasing tire life.
  7. Keep up on routine maintenance
    Follow the recommended maintenance intervals for your vehicle to make sure there arent any problems leading to a loss in fuel economy. Keeping your engine in good condition with constant maintenance will make sure it is running at its best and using the lowest amount of fuel as possible.
  8. Check tires for proper inflation and tread
    Tires are a critical part of your car as they are the only part that touches the road surface. Check your tire pressure (while the tires are still cold before driving) to ensure they are set to the manufactureres specifications. Tires that are over or under-inflated will cause more resistance when rolling along and your car will use more gas to overcome this extra drag. Tread condition is also important, make sure that the tires are worn evenly and do not have any abnormal wear and tear. If they do, repair or replace them to ensure your car has the best grip on the road as possible.
  9. Have consistent engine oil changes
    It is recommended to change your engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 mile. Engine oil change is highly dependent on the type of oil you are using for your vehicle (non synthetic, synthetic blend, fully synthetic) and the weight of the oil. Use the recommended engine oil grade and weight for your vehicle for optimal fuel consumption.
  10. Keep the gas tank full
    Avoid driving until the reserve light is on. While it might be easier to fillup only when you absolutely need it, running your car on fumes can be damaging for your fuel economy and the fuel system. When low on fuel, the fuel pump and engine has to work harder to pull the full from the tank, which uses more fuel in the process. There is also a chance that air bubbles or settled sediments in the fuel tank will get into the fuel pipes and clog your engine. By filling up when down to a quarter tank, you can ensure you wont have any low fuel problems, and you wont have to worry about getting stranded!

 

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