Five Ways to Save at the Pump

With average U.S. prices again hovering around three dollars per gallon and little relief in sight, drivers are searching for ways to reduce the costs of getting around town.

Paul Bandoly, manager of technical services for WIX Filters, says that while drivers can’t control gas prices, they can take steps to improve their vehicles’ fuel efficiency and lessen the impact of fuel costs on their wallets. He offers vehicle owners the following tips on how to conserve fuel and alleviate some of the pain at the pump.

Ditch that dirty air filter. Air filters keep impurities like dirt, dust and insects from damaging the engine.

“A clogged filter restricts air flow to the engine and results in too much gas being burned for the amount of air, which wastes gas and reduces horsepower,” says Bandoly. “Replacing a clogged air filter will protect your engine and can increase fuel efficiency by as much as 10 percent, a savings of up to 25 cents a gallon.”

Drivers should check their owner’s manual for maintenance intervals to ensure their engine runs smoothly and efficiently.

Upgrade your oil and filters. High grade or synthetic motor oils perform better over a wider range of operating conditions than lower-quality oils. Similarly, high quality, premium oil and air filters trap more contaminants than standard filters and assist in reducing friction and improving airflow inside the engine. Less friction and improved air flow allow your engine to more efficiently generate power, ultimately saving you money at the pump.

“Spending a little more up front for high-quality engine lubricants and premium filters can save car owners significant expenses in the long run,” says Bandoly. “A more efficient engine can improve gas mileage by as much as 10 percent, about 25 cents per gallon.”

Respect road rules. Aggressive driving can cost you more than a speeding ticket. Speeding, rapid acceleration and sudden braking can lower your gas mileage by up to 33 percent on the highway and five percent around town. Vehicles achieve optimal fuel efficiency at different speeds; however, gas consumption typically increases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. As a general rule, for every five mph you drive over 60 mph, you pay an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas. Observing the speed limit and anticipating traffic situations can save you from 10 to 50 cents per gallon.

Lighten your load. Drivers should avoid carrying unnecessary heavy items in their vehicles, especially on roof racks where the cargo causes increased wind resistance. An extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel efficiency by up to two percent, costing you three to four cents per gallon.

Inflate your savings. Under-inflated tires can be dangerous and may increase fuel consumption by up to three percent. Maintaining correct tire pressure not only increases the life of your tires, but maximizes fuel efficiency and can save you up to seven cents per gallon.

From Meineke.

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