The cost of fuel has been on the news a lot lately. With gas prices hitting an all-time high, the average American spends 3% of their income on fuel or more depending on their daily commute needs and the state they come from. While gas prices could be better, we can’t just sit and complain about them. There are ways you can save on fuel and reduce the amount of money you spend on gas every month.

Here are some tips to help you out:

1. Use the Right Speed:

While there is no one ideal speed that will help you save fuel, studies have shown that driving too fast or too slowly increases fuel consumption in most car models. You’re likely to get the best fuel economy when driving at a speed between 45 mph to 55 mph.

The higher the speed, the more fuel your car burns. While you may need to speed sometimes, you want to accelerate gently but not be excessive with your driving. This won’t just make fuel expensive; it can also reduce your car’s lifespan by damaging your engine, tires, and other parts of your vehicle. So, make sure you’re driving within the speed limits we’ve mentioned above.

2. Get the Tire Pressure Right

One of the easiest ways to save fuel is to check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the right level. Tires that are under-inflated reduce the roll resistance, which increases the pressure on the engine and as a result increases fuel consumption. If you’re not sure how much air to put in your tires, consult your car’s user manual or the manufacturer’s website. Most manufacturers recommend 32 psi to 35 psi when the weather is cold.

3. Switch Off the Aircon

Reducing the use of your air conditioning system is another way to save fuel. That’s because air cons draw their power from the engine. So if you turn them on, they strain the engine and cause your fuel consumption to increase. The best alternative to using an aircon is to open the windows and let in some fresh air. If you must use an aircon, try switching it off when the vehicle is not in motion or when traveling at lower speeds. You can switch on the air-con when it’s absolutely necessary.

4. Service Your Car Regularly

A car that’s in good condition operates smoothly, consumes less fuel, and is also safer. To ensure that your vehicle runs smoothly and efficiently on the road, get it serviced regularly. Use genuine parts for all repairs to make sure the reliability and correct functioning of your car. You should also clean the air filter every two weeks to allow a better flow of air into your engine, which results in better mileage and performance.

5. Improve Your Driving Skills

Some common mistakes that most people make while driving include speeding, abrupt stops, poor acceleration, and poor use of the gears. Improving your driving skills will help you to save fuel by reducing the amount of gas you burn unnecessarily every time you make driving mistakes. You can learn how to drive more efficiently by taking driving classes or reading articles and tips on the internet.

6. Empty Your Boot

Loading your boot with unnecessary items can increase how much you pay for fuel. More weight makes the car heavier which makes it work harder to accelerate. Only carry stuff in your boot if you have to. That’s when you go shopping or need to move stuff somewhere. This is a simple trick that can save you from burning a lot of gas unnecessarily.

7. Don’t Spend on Premium Fuel

Only using premium fuel when your car doesn’t really need it can cost you extra money and reduce your fuel economy. Unless your car’s manual or the manufacturer has recommended it, use regular unleaded gasoline instead of premium. Use premium fuel only if absolutely necessary.

8. Shut Down the Engine When Not in Use

When you stop your vehicle at a red light, try to make use of the idle-stop feature if it’s available in your car. This can save gas by shutting off the engine automatically when you’re idling for more than 30 seconds or so. You should also turn off the engine once you’ve safely parked your car at work or home. If you’re driving a hybrid vehicle, switch to electric mode if possible.

Buy a Car With Good Fuel Economy

Vehicles with good fuel economy will definitely save you money over time. If you’re in the market for such a car, consider talking to us at Lakeland Hyundai about the models we have in stock. We’ll help you find a car that’s economical and reliable, and we’ll be happy to take care of the financing for you as well.