6 Great Gas Saving Tips

The price of petrol just keeps going up and up! Gas prices are killer. If me using my car was rare before (I like buses and bicycles), its even rarer now. Last time was when I paid a visit to the Stevenswood Spa Resort, I think. People are looking for ways for their gas money to stretch farther, thus saving gas, and Im no exception. A few months back, I asked a friend of mine who worked for a car company if he had some practical advice. Now, Im here to share his valuable advice with all of you!

1. Find cheap gas. This is the most obvious solution, but often overlooked. Major gas companies add a lot to price by adding various additives to your gas then giving it a fancy name! Keep a sharp eye out for gas prices as well. If a station seems to have a lower price, take the chance and load up.

2. Accelerate and brake right. Every time you step on the gas, you lose fuel. Dont stomp on it! Slowly push down with your foot. If youre close to something, dont slam the brakes. Raise your foot from the gas and let the car decelerate naturally, saving the brake for when you really need it. Keep doing this until it becomes second nature. You can save 20% of your gas this way, experts say.

3. Dump the weight. A jack and a spare tire are fine, but carrying your gardening tools in your trunk may be excessive! Get rid of anything thats not necessary. Same goes for luggage racks or similar devices on your car roof; not only is it weight, but more drag. Get rid of it when youre not using it to save gas.

4. Ride the wave! Vehicles, when moving, push air to the side to make room for it to go through. This causes drag and slows down your car. Take advantage of this! If youre behind a large vehicle like a truck, which displaces a lot of air, there will be much less drag, thus less gas used to get the same speed. Race car drivers use this to great effect. So, why dont you do that too?

5. Share gas. Youll save a lot of gas if there are more people! Why not start or join a carpool? Expenses are split between you, and thats less cars on the road, less gas used up, and less cash spent! Its not always possible, but if a chance presents itself, do yourself a favor and jump on it.

6. Maintain your car. Replacing a clogged filter can increase your mileage by 10%. Using the right oil also improves efficiency. Check your tires and make sure theyre filled with air. Take care of your car, and it will take care of you!

There are more things you can do to save gas, but these are the more general ones. Any gas-saving tips you like to share? Opinions are always welcome!