How to Maximize Your Gas Mileage
It probably goes without saying that you want to get the most out of every tank of gas. From saving money, to being good to the environment to simply reducing the time spent at the pump, there are a variety of benefits to maximizing your gas mileage.
Tips for Getting the Best Fuel Economy
Here are some tips to make sure your vehicle gets the best possible gas mileage:
Drive evenly
When you race off the line at the first sight of green or slam on the brakes to stop, you’re actually using more gas than necessary. Smooth starts and slows will help you make your tank last longer. In fact, abrupt starts and stops can use from 15 to 30 percent more gas, so even driving is key to getting good gas mileage.
Reduce weight
Is your trunk full of items that you’re not using? Seasonal sports equipment that lives in the back of your car all year or other heavy items can weigh down your vehicle. That extra weight can negatively affect your fuel economy. It’s estimated that for every 10 pounds of added weight, your mpg reduces by 1-2 percent. That weight can add up quickly, so take a look through your car and see if there’s any unnecessary items that can be unloaded including cargo and attachments such as unused bike racks, roof racks or even car body enhancements.
Tire pressure
Ensuring that your tires are properly inflated can also increase your fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires, not only being unsafe in general, can add resistance and make it harder for your car to move forward, causing you to give the vehicle more gas. Check your sidewalls, specs on the inside of your driver’s side door or your owner’s manual to find out the proper inflation number, and then check and fill your tires as necessary.
Reduce idle time
If you can, reduce the time your vehicle idles. If you’re making a quick stop, it might still be more efficient to shut your vehicle down and then restart it than to leave it idling. This is, of course, if it’s safe to do so. With summer heat here in San Bernardino County you might want to leave your AC on (which also decreases fuel economy), but as we approach cooler weather, consider parking in the shade and leaving your windows down if you’re going to be sitting for a while.
Stay up on regular maintenance
Keeping your vehicle in good working order all around can help you get the most of each gallon. When your vehicle isn’t operating at its best, it will need to use more fuel to perform at the levels you’re requiring. Things like staying on top of air filter changes, tire maintenance, fuel system maintenance and more will all have a positive effect on your fuel efficiency.
Make Every Gallon Count
There are a few easy things you can do to maximize your gas mileage. By moderating your driving speed, removing excess cargo, reducing idle time and staying on top of maintenance items you can ensure that you’re getting the most out of every trip to the pump.
Fuel economy check
Contact any of our dealerships in Ontario, California to learn more about our service departments and how we can help you take care of preventative maintenance items to increase your fuel efficiency.