12 Things You Can Do To Improve Your Gas Mileage Now
With fuel prices constantly fluctuating, finding ways to improve gas mileage is more important than ever. Whether you’re commuting daily or planning a road trip, optimizing your vehicle’s fuel efficiency can lead to significant savings. Fortunately, enhancing your car’s performance doesn’t require expensive modifications—simple changes in driving habits and maintenance routines can make a substantial difference. Let’s explore 12 actionable strategies to help you get the most out of every gallon.
1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, causing your engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Regularly check your tire pressure, especially during temperature changes, as cold weather can lower pressure levels. Keeping tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels can improve fuel economy by up to 3%. Investing in a reliable tire pressure gauge and checking monthly can lead to noticeable savings over time. Properly inflated tires also enhance safety and extend tire lifespan.
2. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Rapid Acceleration
Aggressive driving behaviors like rapid acceleration and hard braking can lower your gas mileage by up to 33% on highways and 5% in city driving. Adopting a smoother driving style by anticipating traffic flow and maintaining a steady speed helps conserve fuel. Using cruise control on highways can assist in maintaining consistent speeds. Remember, gradual acceleration and deceleration are key to fuel-efficient driving. Not only does this save gas, but it also reduces wear and tear on your vehicle.
3. Reduce Excess Weight
Carrying unnecessary items in your vehicle adds extra weight, which can decrease fuel efficiency. For every 100 pounds of additional weight, your fuel economy can drop by about 1%. Remove heavy items from your trunk and backseat when they’re not needed. Traveling light not only improves gas mileage but also enhances vehicle handling. Consider removing roof racks or carriers when not in use to reduce aerodynamic drag.
4. Limit Air Conditioning Use
Using air conditioning can increase fuel consumption, especially during city driving. At lower speeds, consider opening windows for ventilation instead. However, at highway speeds, open windows can create aerodynamic drag, so using the A/C sparingly is more efficient. Utilize your vehicle’s ventilation system and park in shaded areas to keep the cabin cool. Regularly servicing your A/C system ensures it operates efficiently when needed.
5. Keep Your Engine Tuned
Regular engine maintenance is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency. A well-tuned engine ensures that fuel is burned efficiently, reducing consumption. Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule, including spark plug replacements and air filter checks. Addressing engine issues promptly can improve gas mileage by up to 4%. Regular oil changes with the correct grade of motor oil also contribute to better fuel economy.
6. Plan and Combine Trips
Short trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as a single, longer trip covering the same distance. Combining errands into one trip reduces the number of cold starts, improving fuel efficiency. Planning your route to avoid heavy traffic and construction zones can also save time and gas. Utilize navigation apps to find the most efficient routes. Efficient trip planning not only conserves fuel but also reduces stress.
7. Avoid Excessive Idling
Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, effectively achieving zero miles per gallon. If you anticipate being stopped for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off the engine. Modern engines require less fuel to restart than to idle for extended periods. Avoiding unnecessary idling reduces fuel consumption and emissions. This practice is especially beneficial during long waits at drive-thrus or when parked.
8. Use the Recommended Motor Oil
Using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil can improve your gas mileage by 1%–2%. Look for motor oils labeled as “Energy Conserving,” which contain friction-reducing additives. Using the wrong grade of oil can increase engine friction, leading to higher fuel consumption. Regular oil changes with the correct oil type ensure optimal engine performance. Consult your owner’s manual or a trusted mechanic for guidance on the best oil for your vehicle.
9. Monitor and Replace Air Filters
A clean air filter allows your engine to operate efficiently by ensuring proper airflow. While replacing a clogged air filter on modern vehicles may not significantly improve fuel economy, it can enhance acceleration and performance. Regularly inspecting and replacing air filters as needed keeps your engine running smoothly. This simple maintenance task contributes to overall vehicle efficiency. Check your air filter during routine oil changes or as recommended by your vehicle’s maintenance schedule.
10. Keep Windows Closed at High Speeds
Driving with windows open at high speeds increases aerodynamic drag, reducing fuel efficiency. At speeds above 40 mph, it’s more efficient to use the air conditioning sparingly than to drive with windows down. Keeping windows closed helps maintain your vehicle’s streamlined shape, minimizing resistance. This practice contributes to better gas mileage during highway driving. Combine this with moderate A/C use for optimal comfort and efficiency.
11. Utilize Cruise Control
Using cruise control on highways helps maintain a constant speed, improving fuel efficiency. It prevents unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can waste fuel. Cruise control is most effective on flat terrains with minimal traffic. However, avoid using it on hilly roads where maintaining a constant speed may require excessive engine power. Engaging cruise control can lead to more relaxed and economical driving.
12. Choose Fuel-Efficient Routes
Planning your route to avoid traffic congestion, construction, and stop-and-go conditions can improve gas mileage. Utilize GPS apps that offer real-time traffic updates and suggest alternative routes. Selecting routes with fewer stops and smoother traffic flow reduces fuel consumption. Even if the distance is slightly longer, a steady-speed route can be more fuel-efficient. Regularly updating your navigation apps ensures access to the latest traffic information.
Small Changes, Big Savings
Improving your gas mileage doesn’t require drastic measures—simple adjustments in driving habits and regular vehicle maintenance can lead to significant savings. By implementing these 12 strategies, you’ll not only reduce fuel costs but also contribute to a more sustainable driving experience. Start incorporating these tips today and enjoy the benefits of enhanced fuel efficiency.
What strategies have you found effective in improving your gas mileage? Share your experiences and tips in the comments below!
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Drew Blankenship is a former Porsche technician who writes and develops content full-time. He lives in North Carolina, where he enjoys spending time with his wife and two children. While Drew no longer gets his hands dirty modifying Porsches, he still loves motorsport and avidly watches Formula 1.