Gas prices are expected to go up considerably in the months to come, which leaves a lot of people wondering what they can do to cut their monthly expenses to prepare for harder times ahead.
How much money you can save on gas depends on the number of miles you drive per week and how much you currently spend on gas. There are a few ways to cut back without making significant changes to your lifestyle.
Keep reading below to learn how to save money on gas and cut your car-related expenses.
1. Avoid Being Idle for Long Periods
Instead of letting cars sit and run for extended periods on warm-ups, turn them off and then back on when needed. Idling for long periods not only wastes gas but also causes the engine to work harder, substantially reducing its lifespan.
There are many benefits of vehicle idle reduction but saving money on gas is definitely the most important one!
2. Ease Up on the Gas and Brakes
By slowly accelerating and decelerating when you drive, you can reduce the amount of energy your vehicle uses, which, in turn, will allow you to spend less on gas. This practice will also help your vehicle’s brakes last longer since you’re not applying pressure hard and fast each time you need to slow down.
3. Remove Excess Weight From Your Car
When you’re carrying around extra items in your trunk or back seat, your vehicle has to work harder to garner the motion needed, thus using extra fuel in the process. Make sure you only take items with you that are absolutely necessary for that particular trip.
4. Keep Your Engine Properly Tuned Up
An important aspect of maintenance is to ensure that your car’s engine is fairly tuned up. This includes checking the oil and filter, spark plugs, oxygen sensors, and fuel injection systems.
5. Consider the EPA Rating of Your Next Car
The most effective step to take is to purchase a vehicle with higher fuel efficiency. This is known as a ‘green’ car. Innovative technologies like regenerative braking, hybrid systems, and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles are all designed to reduce fuel consumption and improve fuel savings.
6. Make Sure Your Tires Are Properly Inflated
An underinflated tire can create more drag on the road, resulting in more fuel being burned as the car has to work harder to move. This potential increase in fuel consumption may even pass the threshold where it becomes more cost-effective to fill up the tank more often.
7. Watch Your Speed
Fuel economy decreases drastically when you exceed the speed limit. When you drive aggressively, such as going over the speed limit or changing lanes frequently, you use more fuel.
8. Skip the Roof Rack and Carrier
A roof rack and carrier add extra drag to your vehicle, which limits aerodynamics and reduces fuel efficiency. Removing the carrier can result in a noticeable increase in fuel efficiency by as much as 10%.
9. Choose a Good Rewards Program
Programs like Fuel Rewards, GasBuddy, and AAA offer cash back and other discounts when you use their cards at participating gas stations. These programs often have an array of different levels and rewards, so it is important to review their offerings and make sure the rewards are worth the effort.
Save on Gas by Being Informed
By taking the steps outlined in this article, you can easily save on gas and lower your expenses. Don’t forget to check the gas prices often and look for locations that offer them for a lower price.
For more saving tips, make sure to visit our website often!
