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Gas prices! Who doesn’t want to improve gas mileage?? Following a few simple tips can help you get more miles to the gallon and benefit your vehicle’s performance.
Tighten your gas cap
A damaged, missing or loose gas capallows gas to evaporate, floating gas fumes and money “into the air”. As much as 147 million gallons of gas evaporate each year due to faulty or loose gas caps. Replace your gas cap, if needed, and be sure to turn your gas cap until you hear it click three times, and reduce air pollution in the process.
Correct Tire Pressure
Keeping your tires inflated with the recommended pressure (check your driver’s door panel for recommended pressure) will improve your gas mileage and encourage even wear on your tires, making your tires last longer. Check your tire pressure often (especially during the winter), or feel free to stop in to either of our Colorado Springs auto repair locations if you would like us to check your air pressure for you. (can save 1-2 mpg).
Change your air filter every 15,000 miles (depending on road conditions):
Your engine requires adequate air flow to operate properly, so a clogged and dirty air filter will make your engine work extra hard to keep running. Driving consistently on dirt roads will require more frequent air filter changes. (can save 2 mpg)
Driving Habits
You can improve gas mileage by driving smoothly, avoiding “jack rabbit” starts and quick braking. Also, avoid idling for more than 30 seconds. Decreasing your speed on the highway from 75 mph to 55 mph can save 1 ½ to 2 gallons of gas in 200 miles, according to Consumer Reports. That is a $5-$7 saving right there!
Buy your gas on Saturday
In Colorado, a “Gas Buddy” study finds that the best day to find cheaper gas prices is Saturday, or late weekend. Keep a log on mileage and prices, to follow what you are paying. A couple of good apps will help you log your gas consumption: Fuelly and Accufuel.
Proper and Consistent Maintenance:
Over time, dirt, sediment, petroleum sludge and carbon deposits build up in your car’s engine, which negatively affects your car’s performance and decreases gas mileage. Changing your spark plugs per your manufacturer’s recommended schedule, and having frequent oil changes (every 5000 miles) are two things that help your engine run more efficiently, therefore saving gas. A professional Fuel Induction System Cleaning can also improve your vehicle’s gas mileage 2-4 miles per gallon, will reduce environmentally damaging exhaust emissions, and can give you better overall performance from your vehicle.
Adding all these tidbits together can mean money that stays in your pocket, as well as improving your vehicle’s operation, maintaining the value of your car… all while being environmentally friendly.
