This year summer is bringing a lot of sun and blazing heat. This season is the perfect opportunity for a road trip. Gas prices may not be as low as they once were, but with some simple adjustments to your driving habits, you can get summer gas mileage. Below are some fuel-saving ideas to get better gas mileage for your summer road trip.
Avoid driving too aggressively.
Take your time and drive safely. There is no need to drive in a way that risks your life and the lives of others. Not only is weaving in and out of traffic dangerous, but it’s also bad for your gas mileage. Aggressive driving with hard braking and acceleration decreases your gas mileage by 33%, according to energy.gov.
Slow down.
Do you like to do a little “pedal to the metal” sometimes? It’s a guilty pleasure for most. To save on gas mileage, slow down a bit when driving. For every 5mph that you drive over 50 mph, your fuel efficiency drops.
Use the A/C strategically.
Using the A/C at high speeds is a significant contributor to reduced fuel economy. If your goal is to save money on gas, try reducing your a/c when driving at slower speeds and on shorter trips. Try to park in a shaded area, and if it’s not too hot outside, roll your windows down for parts of your drive.
Do not leave your engine idling.
Understandably, when you’re waiting in the car for a friend, the last thing you want to do is sit in a hot car. Leaving your car idling with the a/c on while it’s in the parked gear can use up to a half a gallon of fuel per hour. If you have to wait, it’s best to leave the car if possible.
Keep your tires properly inflated.
Maintaining proper tire pressure is an effective way to improve your summer gas mileage. Your tire pressure can be located on the side of your open door, the glove box, or your owner’s manual. When keeping your tires at the correct pressure, gas mileage can improve up to 3%. Under-inflated tires cause the most damage to fuel efficiency. If you’re having difficulty inflating your tires, consult a professional automotive technician.
Stay on top of regular oil changes.
Once you have your tires inflated at the correct pressure, check to make sure your oil change is up to date. Driving with old or sludgy oil can cause a significant hit to your fuel economy. We have trained ASE technicians that can check your oil and give you a sticker to indicate the next time it needs to be changed.
Spend less on gas and set more money aside for your essential summer purchases. If you don’t notice a difference even after these tips, it may be the make or model of your vehicle. Some vehicles use more gas by design. If you suspect your car model is the issue, it may be time to ditch the gas guzzler and invest in a cost-saving vehicle.