Auto Talk

Tips for Making Your Car More Fuel-Efficient

     Increased demand for gasoline fueled by spring and summer auto travelers often leads to gas prices riding even higher at the pump. The good news is that there are things you can do to make your car more fuel-efficient and lessen the amount of money you spend at the pump.
     The most important car care tip is to make sure you follow the maintenance schedule of your vehicle and get a regular tune-up. Check your owner's manual for tune-up information and work with your car care professional to make sure you know what work needs to be done on your car. Keeping your vehicle in top operating condition will help it run more efficiently and maximize your fuel economy.
     Confirm what type of fuel your vehicle needs to run smoothly. Using self-serve regular gas compared to premium can save an average of 17 cents per gallon. And filling up at the self-serve pump can save nearly 25 cents per gallon, as compared to full service. Avoid purchasing mid-grade or premium gasoline unless it is recommended by the vehicle's manufacturer or is needed to prevent knocking in an older vehicle.
     Keeping track of your gas mileage will help you notice a change in the miles per gallon that you are getting. If your car is in good operating condition, the Car Care Council estimates you may save up to $150 per year. A loss of fuel economy may indicate mechanical trouble.
     Check your tires to make sure they are properly inflated. Low air pressure can reduce fuel efficiency by 10-15 percent alone. Don't forget to have your tires rotated regularly and have your wheels properly aligned as well. Change your fuel filter at least once a year. A plugged fuel filter can cause your vehicle to stall.
     Use the air conditioner only when absolutely necessary. Most air conditioning systems require more fuel to keep them running. If you can, open the windows and let Mother Nature do the job for you.
     Observe your own driving habits. Accelerate gently, brake gradually and avoid hard stops. Also, driving at a slower, constant speed will help conserve fuel. Avoid overloading your car, especially on long trips. Pack lightly when traveling and try not to carry items on the vehicle's roof.
     Look for ways to combine errands into one trip or go to one location to take care of many errands as possible. Consider car pooling, biking or walking to locations nearby instead.
     Higher gas prices may be here to stay, but you can save yourself some money by paying attention to your car and your driving habits.

     Sources: AAA, ARA Content and the Car Care Council

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