Optimize Your Drive and Save Big With These 7 Easy Tips
Whether you’re looking for ways to reduce your carbon footprint or save a few extra dollars at the pump, a fuel efficient vehicle is the perfect solution. And luckily, you don’t have to purchase an all-new electric car straight from the production line. By implementing a few changes into your everyday driving routine, you can reduce your vehicle’s overall fuel consumption, resulting in an eco-friendlier drive – and a less expensive one.
The good news is you can start today. The following are seven ways to improve your car’s fuel efficiency and get the most out of your ride.
#1 – Trade In Your Vehicle
If your current ride is a gas guzzler, you might find yourself filling up your tank once or twice a week. With fuel prices still relatively high, these costs can add up quickly. By trading in your ride at a used car dealership near you, you’ll be able to get in the driver’s seat of a pre-owned vehicle with a better gas mileage, like a hybrid or fully electric model. Swapping out your ride for one that is more fuel efficient is guaranteed to prolong your trips to the pump, and stretch your dollar further.
#2 – Check Your Tires
Believe it or not, your tires can impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Driving with defective or underinflated tires increases their resistance on the road, forcing your car to burn more fuel in order to gain traction. You can determine if your tires are worn out or need a replacement by taking a look at their tread. A professional can help you measure your tread depth, or you can perform the penny test at home.
Keeping a close eye on your tires and checking their pressure every so often will contribute to the overall efficiency of your ride. Plus, it can help keep you safer on the road.
#3 – Watch Your Speed
You should always obey the speed limit, but your fuel efficiency is just another reason to do so. In fact, reducing your speed can save up to 15 percent on fuel economy. Rather than speeding, driving within the speed limit can make the most of your fuel and extend your ride.
It’s also beneficial to use cruise control whenever you can. Slowing down and speeding up on repeat can take a hit to your fuel usage, so it’s best to stay at a smooth, consistent pace during your excursion.
#4 – Take Your Time
As soon as the light turns green, you may feel tempted to put the pedal to the metal. However, this isn’t the best idea in terms of fuel efficiency. Instead, you should accelerate at a quick but smooth rate. The same applies for hitting the brakes – give yourself plenty of time to slow down and come to a gradual stop. Reducing your acceleration and braking is a simple way to make your car more fuel efficient.
#5 – Lighten Up
If your vehicle is being weighed down by unnecessary items, this could be detrimental to its fuel efficiency. The heavy weight forces your engine to work harder, which in turn, burns more fuel. Roof racks or other accessories could be causing that extra weight, as well as other miscellaneous objects in your backseat or trunk. Removing these items and only carrying what you need can help save fuel and lighten your load. With a lighter vehicle, you might even notice a smoother acceleration.
#6 – Plan Ahead
Planning your route before you get behind the wheel can prevent you from wasting fuel and driving in circles. To ensure you’re taking the quickest – and most efficient – route possible, try using a navigation system to guide your drive.
You can also save fuel by combining your errands. One outing with multiple stops is more effective than taking several little trips, and is sure to save you some time, too.
#7 – Turn Off the AC
Air conditioning plays a huge part in your vehicle’s fuel consumption. To cool down your ride and save fuel at the same time, roll the windows down instead. If you do need to turn the AC on, opt for the re-circulation option.
Change Your Driving Habits and Increase Your Fuel Efficiency Today!
Fuel efficient vehicles are all the rage, and it’s no surprise why. Not only do they benefit you, but they also benefit the environment and everyone around you. And as you’ve now learned, optimizing your fuel efficiency isn’t nearly as complicated as you once thought. Small improvements make all the difference, leading to less trips to the gas station and a better driving experience overall.
