Simple Fuel Saving Ideas And Tips

With today's gas prices now well over $3.00 a gallon in many areas we all need to find ways to cut our fuel costs. I think most would agree we can do a better job cutting our cost with a little effort in how we drive and maintain our vehicles.

First we need to pay close attention to how we drive. Speed I think most would agree is one area we all need to do a better job in. SLOW DOWN. This in itself will increase our mileage a great deal. Another area is using our brakes, when just driving a little slower would get us there just as fast and again save fuel. Be ready when it is your turn at a stop light or sign to start moving, this will save a jack rabbit start which again takes more fuel than a smooth start. By anticipating and being more alert as to what is going on far ahead and being ready when it is time to change lanes, will also add to our fuel savings. Most of these things just take a retraining of ourselves and habits. You might think these little things don't really make a difference, but all added together you will be pleasantly surprised.

Other things to consider include things like using the best route for the time of day we're driving. If for example we could find a route with less stop and go traffic, this would help. Once your engine heats up most will use less fuel, but idling at a stoplight for more than 30 seconds at several stops will cost you. Try to combine errands and trips by planning ahead, instead of say 4 trips a week making only 2 is again a winner. Although most of us like the free feeling of driving our own car, we might take a look at car pooling as another way to save fuel. Most of these things might at first seem like a lot of work, you might be surprised how much more relaxed you feel knowing you are doing a better job driving and are saving money.

Other tips, be sure to turn off the air conditioning when not needed again this could add as much as two miles per gallon to your fuel savings. Proper maintenance is another area that should not be over looked. Keep your engine tuned up, this in it self could be a big fuel saver. You might also want to consider switching to a different brand of motor oil for further fuel saving. For this I would check with the person who does your oil changing, he can explain the different oils that could save you money on your fuel cost.

Keep your tires at the proper pressure. As you make changes in your driving habits and maintenance you might want to keep a log for awhile so you will know how much the change has helped you save fuel. Once you see the savings it will be like a game to see where else you can find ways to cut your fuel cost. I believe many of us out there have accepted the rise in fuel cost as a way of life, let's not settle for that. Things can get better for all of us if we all do what we can to conserve fuel, and save money on gas.