Gas Saving Tips Pt.1

Pt.2 / Pt.3 / Pt.4 / Pt.5

1. Use the right oil. You can improve your car's gas mileage by 1 percent to 2 percent by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. Go for the motor oil with the words "energy conserving" on the API performance label. This oil contains friction-reducing additives.

2. Accelerate slowly when starting from dead stop. Don't push pedal down more than 1/4 of the total foot travel.

3. Don't start and stop engine needlessly. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the gas amount equivalent to when you start the engine.

4. Avoid prolonged warming up of engine, even on cold mornings - 30 to 45 seconds is plenty of time.

5. Traveling at 55 mph will give you up to 21% better mileage when compared to speed limits of 65 mph and 70 mph.

6. Traveling at fast rates in low gears can consume up to 45% more fuel than is needed.

7. Keep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10%.

8. Drive steadily. Slowing down or speeding up wastes fuel.

9. Think ahead when approaching hills. If you accelerate, do it before you reach the hill, not while you're on it.

10. Stoplights are usually timed for your motoring advantage. By traveling steadily at the legal speed limit you boost your chances of having the "green light" all the way.

11. Regular tune-ups ensure best economy; check owner's manual for recommended maintenance intervals. Special attention should be given to maintaining clean air filters... diminished air flow increases gas waste.

12. Inflate all tires to maximum limit. Each tire should be periodically spun, balanced and checked for out-of-round. Radial designs are the recognized fuel-savers; check manufacturer's specifications for maximum tire pressures.

13. Remove excess weight from trunk or inside of car - extra tires, back seats, unnecessary heavy parts. Extra weight reduces mileage, especially when driving up inclines.

14. During cold weather watch for icicles frozen to car frame.  Unremoved snow and ice cause tremendous wind resistance. Warm water thrown on (or hosed on) will eliminate it fast. Be careful though, not too hot.