Gas prices are on the rise again, coinciding with the start of spring travel. This development is putting extra pressure on drivers, whether they’re planning summer road trips or just commuting to work.
The current national average for regular gasoline has surged recently to about $3.98 per gallon, marking a $1 increase over the past month. Experts suggest that motorists should prepare for ongoing fluctuations at gas stations due to heightened seasonal demand and elevated oil prices.
On a brighter note, experts indicate that small adjustments in driving habits and basic maintenance can stretch your fuel further. Here are seven practical tips to help save on gas.
1. Drive Smart, Not Fast
Speeding and abrupt acceleration or braking can lead to significant fuel wastage. For instance, data shows that fuel economy takes a hit when you exceed around 80 mph. Aggressive driving can cut fuel efficiency by as much as 40% in heavy traffic. Using cruise control can also help maintain a steady speed, although it should be avoided in slippery conditions.
2. Choose the Right Gas
Using premium gasoline won’t necessarily boost fuel efficiency unless your vehicle specifically requires it. Most cars are designed to run on regular 87 octane fuel, which is often the most economical choice. Going for a higher octane rating isn’t usually worth the extra cost.
3. Keep Tires Inflated
Low tire pressure can increase road resistance, making your engine work harder and increasing fuel consumption. Tires can naturally lose 1 to 3 psi each month, and a drop of just 10 psi could reduce fuel economy by around 4%. Regular checks are especially important in colder weather or if there’s a slow leak.
4. Avoid Idling
Some people think that letting the engine idle saves fuel, but that’s not true. A warm engine generally only uses about 10 seconds’ worth of fuel to restart, meaning extended idling is a waste. Most vehicles just need about 30 seconds to warm up before driving.
5. Lighten Your Load
Extra weight in your vehicle—like cargo boxes or roof racks—can significantly diminish fuel efficiency. Each additional 100 pounds can cut your fuel economy by approximately 1%. Reducing unnecessary cargo can help you drive further on a tank of gas.
6. Plan Your Routes
Utilizing navigation apps to find fuel-efficient routes can help avoid unnecessary travel and traffic congestion. Combining errands into a single trip also cuts down on driving time. Fewer trips mean fewer cold starts, which are less fuel-efficient.
7. Use AC Wisely
Air conditioning can add to fuel consumption—by as much as 10% in some cases—while open windows can create drag. Experts suggest keeping windows closed at high speeds and using air conditioning instead, ideally after allowing heat to escape from the car’s interior.
