Between school drop-offs, soccer practice, and weekend trips, it can feel like you’re spending half your life in the car. All that driving adds up at the pump, putting a dent in your family’s budget. Finding ways to save on fuel is more important than ever.
Fortunately, you don’t need to buy a new hybrid or electric vehicle to see a difference. Using these easy ways to boost your car’s gas mileage, you can save money and focus on other expenses.
1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
Most people don’t think of it, but tires have a role in improving vehicle fuel efficiency and keeping your car safe on the road. One of the easiest and most effective ways to boost your gas mileage is to maintain proper tire pressure. When your tires are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder to move the car forward.
You can find the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle on a sticker inside the driver’s side door jamb or in your owner’s manual. It’s important to check your tire pressure at least once a month, as temperature changes can cause it to fluctuate.
Many gas stations have air pumps you can use for a small fee, or you can buy a simple tire pressure gauge to keep in your glove box. Proper inflation can improve your gas mileage up to 3%, which can go a long way over time.
2. Avoid Aggressive Driving
How you drive directly affects how much fuel you use. Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and speeding are not just unsafe—they’re also major gas-guzzlers. These habits can lower your gas mileage by 15-30% at highway speeds and 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic.
Instead, aim for a smoother ride. Accelerate gently, anticipate stops to avoid sudden braking, and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on the highway is a great way to keep your speed consistent and save fuel.
3. Don’t Skip Regular Maintenance
A well-maintained car is an efficient car. Simple things like regular oil changes and replacing clogged air filters can have a noticeable effect on your gas mileage. When your engine oil is old and dirty, it creates more friction, forcing the engine to work harder. Similarly, a dirty air filter restricts airflow to the engine, which can hurt performance and fuel economy.
Following your vehicle’s recommended maintenance schedule is crucial. A properly tuned engine runs more efficiently, and fixing a serious maintenance issue, like a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by as much as 40%. Think of it as a regular check-up to keep your car healthy and running at its best.
Start Saving at the Pump
Improving your car’s gas mileage doesn’t require a major overhaul of your lifestyle. Implementing these simple strategies can make every gallon of gas go further. You’ll save money, reduce your environmental impact, and set a great example for the little passengers in the back seat.
