Fuel can be really expensive and when you don’t drive properly or in a fuel-conserving manner, your poor driving habits can hit you where it hurts – in the wallet. According to AAA, “studies have repeatedly shown that personal driving habits are the single biggest factor that affects vehicle fuel consumption.”
The good news is that if you adopt new and improved driving habits, the benefits will be twofold: 1) you’ll be a safer driver, and 2) you could end up saving a significant amount of money at the gas pump.
How to Conserve Fuel
One great way to conserve fuel is to buy a fuel-efficient vehicle. When you’re buying a new car, SUV or truck, look for the model that has the best fuel economy in its class. Keep in mind that if you’re considering a larger or more powerful engine, while it may be more fun to drive, it’s not necessary and it can use a lot more gas.
- Be sure to maintain your vehicle according to the manufacturer’s directions. Regular servicing is important for fuel economy and performance.
- If a “Check Engine” light comes on, take your car to a repair shop or the dealer as soon as possible. When that light comes on, it’s an indicator that something is wrong and it’s causing excessive emissions, which often reduce fuel economy.
- Keep your tires inflated properly. If they are underinflated, it will reduce fuel economy. Underinflated tires also affect braking and handling and are more likely to blow out.
When You Drive
Avoid speeding as this wastes fuel. When you’re on the freeway, be aware that fuel economy reduces significantly when driving at speeds above 50 miles per hour.
- Avoid accelerating hard;
- Avoid making “jackrabbit” starts;
- When driving around town, adjust your speed so you can time the traffic lights. By reducing the acceleration, you save fuel;
- When you approach a stop sign or red light, take your foot off the accelerator and let your car slow down until it’s time for you to brake;
- When you accelerate, do it smoothly at a moderate throttle. This practice reduces the engine RPMs and saves fuel;
- When on the highway, use the cruise control to save fuel but never use it in wet or slippery weather conditions;
- Avoid warming up the engine, even when it’s cold outside (you don’t need to and it wastes fuel); and
- Avoid idling your car for long periods of time in general. If you’re going to be idling for more than 60 seconds, turn off the engine to save gasoline.
We hope you found this fuel conservation advice helpful. If you need to file a car accident claim, contact our office to schedule a consultation.
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