With the current global recession, many people are looking for ways to save money on transportation. While public transport can be a good choice for people that live in a city, many areas are inaccessible without a vehicle. The following guide provides simple tips and tricks for saving money and reducing gas usage in a car. As gas prices have risen in many parts of the United States, many people are looking for ways to get better miles-per-gallon (MPG) out of a car.
A small vehicle can be a better choice than a large one. While many people consider an over-sized vehicle to be a sign of affluence, ownership can be extremely expensive over time. In many cases, a smaller vehicle can be a good choice for a family of four. Instead of a large sports utility vehicle, it’s often possible to purchase a sedan that can comfortably fit four people.
It’s essential to service all vehicles on a regular basis. Poor maintenance can contribute to poor gas mileage in many vehicles. For example, under-inflated tires require more energy to move a vehicle than properly inflated tires. Most vehicles have a recommended tire pressure guide located on the driver’s door panel.
In addition, it’s essential to service a vehicle on a regular schedule. While many manufacturers recommend that a vehicle owner service his or her vehicle every 3,000 miles, it may be possible to schedule a for service vehicle every 5,000 miles without problems. However, longer service times than 5,000 miles can cause engine issues in some vehicles. For example, many types of vehicle oil will lose their viscosity over time. This can lead to increased engine wear if a vehicle isn’t serviced properly.
In addition, it’s a good idea to drive with the windows up on a vehicle. Most modern vehicles designed after 1990 are very aerodynamic. When the windows are lowered on a modern vehicle, wind will not be able to move smoothly past the vehicle. In many cases, a vehicle’s air conditioner will provide better energy efficiency than the use of windows.
It’s also important to use the right type of fuel in a vehicle. Higher-octane fuels will often provide better fuel efficiency for a vehicle. However, it’s important to put the right type of fuel in a car’s engine. Putting a very high-octane fuel in a regular vehicle may cause engine damage.
In addition, driving habits can have a significant impact on a vehicle’s potential gas mileage. In many cases, excessive use of the accelerator or brakes can reduce the MPG of a vehicle. Most modern vehicles list a lower expected MPG for “city driving” when compared to “highway driving.” A great way to avoid excessive brake usage is by maintaining a significant distance when following another vehicle. This will reduce the need for excessive break usage. In addition, it’s a good idea to accelerate at a moderate pace when possible. While quick acceleration may be necessary for some situations, a lead foot will often reduce a vehicle’s potential gas mileage.
There are a number of tips and tricks that can be effective when looking to increase a vehicle’s gas mileage. While driving habits can have a positive impact on a vehicle’s MPG, it’s essential to research a new vehicle’s gas mileage before purchase.