Gas Saving Tips!

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OK, so gasoline prices have leveled off, but let’s face it, they’re still high and we know they’re on your mind.

In fact, a new CNN poll released Thursday reported that seven out of 10 Americans said rising gas prices have created hardship for their families and they expect prices to reach $5 a gallon.

So, last month we showed you how the County Department of Agriculture, Weights and Measures helps protect your wallet by constantly monitoring gas-station pumps to make sure that when you buy a gallon of gas — you’re actually getting a full gallon of gas.

But we thought you might also like to review tips from experts on the best ways to save gas. Many of us are already familiar with some tips, such as: “make sure your tires are properly inflated (under-inflated tires equal more road resistance and decreased mileage), and “drive smoothly, avoid quick starts and fast stops.”

But it’s always good to review. Here are a few other tips from experts (Popular Mechanics, AAA, Consumer Reports and even — Mythbusters!)

  • Find the cheapest gas in town by checking websites such as GasBuddy.com and GasPriceWatch.com. (You can also check out smart-phone apps like Gas Buddy and Fuel Finder.
  • Don’t buy premium gas unless your car actually requires it (Your owner’s manual and/or your dealer can tell you if it’s necessary). Most cars run just fine on regular unleaded!
  • Don’t carry junk in your trunk. You’re literally weighing yourself down.
  • If you can, leave for work before the rush so you’re not stuck in gas-guzzling stop-and-go traffic.
  • Keep up on your car maintenance. Tune-ups and new air filters can add extra miles to the gallon.
  • Drive the speed limit (OK, stop whining). Driving slower uses less gas. If you can’t drive the speed limit, slow down anyway and save!
  • Plan errands before you leave the house. Combine multiple errands into one trip — and hit the farthest distance first because a fully-warmed up car runs more efficiently.
  • Check for deals. Some companies like AAA and Costco (in partnership with American Express) will offer money back, travel or gift cards for using their credit cards to buy gas.
  • Pay cash for gas. Many gas stations tack on an extra 35 to 45 cents to use a debit or credit card.
  • Make right turns only. What? Mythbusters proved this works. When city-driving, don’t idle and waste gas at lights and stop signs when you can turn right and keep moving! Even if it takes you a few hundred yards out of the way, it will save.
  • Wash your car every now and then! A clean car actually creates less resistance and is more fuel-efficient!
  • Keep your truck tailgate up! There is information out there that says if you lower your truck’s tailgate, you’ll decrease drag and increase mileage. However, keeping it raised actually creates a vortex of air that will allow other air to pass over it with less drag. (Thanks, Mythbusters!)