Tips for Improving Your Gas Mileage

Vehicle Tips

• Keep your tires properly inflated, and check them frequently.
• Keep your front suspension and steering in proper alignment.
• Use the thinnest viscosity oil that your car's manufacturer recommends (5W-30 for most newer cars), (10W-30 for older cars).
• Keep your engine in proper mechanical condition.
• Keep your engine in tune and make sure the air and fuel filters are clean.
• Make sure your brakes are not dragging.
• Repair body damage. That crunched front fender adds aerodynamic drag.
• Don't use premium fuel if your car does not require it (check your owner's manual); using it is an unnecessary expense.
• Don't waste your money on those late night "as seen on TV" products that are supposed to increase your mileage.

Driving Tips

• Avoid excessive warm-up time. Modern engines do not require it.
• Don't idle your engine for long periods. Turn off your engine when you leave the car or have to wait a long time.
• Avoid jack-rabbit starts.
• Keep your speed at 55 miles (90 km) per hour or less whenever possible.
• For newer vehicles with aerodynamic designs, close the windows and turn on the A/C when driving on the freeway.
• For older cars with inefficient A/C compressors, use the ventilation system and close the windows, temperature permitting.
• Anticipate merging traffic and stoplights, decelerate and accelerate smoothly.
• Plan your trips wisely. If you need to go several places, plan a route that allows you to run most or all of your errands in one outing.
• Empty the trunk! Extra clothes, overdue library books, tools and bags.
• Car pool whenever possible or practical.
• Listen to radio reports for alternate routes around congested areas.
• Drive in the highest gear possible (without lugging the engine).
• Try to keep your speed constant. Use cruise control when on long stretches of road.