It costs to drive, yet how we love it. We can cut transportation costs. We can improve vehicle maintenance, use some wise practices, make smart purchases, and modify how we operate our vehicles.

Keep the engine tuned. A poorly tuned engine can increase fuel consumption by up to 20% depending upon the vehicle’s condition. Read the owner’s manual and follow the recommended maintenance schedule. Consult a reliable vehicle repairman. Not only will you save money on fuel costs, but your vehicle will run better and longer. Keep tires properly inflated. Under inflated tires can increase fuel consumption by as much as 6%. Not only do under inflated tires decrease fuel efficiency, they also can pose a serious safety hazard. Tires with too little air can experience failure, tread separation, and dangerous blowouts.

Wise practices Plan ahead. Numerous trips taken from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as one trip over the same distance when the engine is warm. Combine errands to conserve fuel. Exchange errands with a neighbor or family member who has similar objectives. Find someone going the same direction and share a ride. Encourage school-aged youth to ride the bus when available. Carpooling requires additional planning to make it work, but the fuel savings make it worthwhile. Dust off your bicycle. Is your destination within walking or biking distance? You know what the additional benefit is: physical activity while decreasing fuel costs at the same time.

Smart purchases Buy a fuel-efficient vehicle. Selecting the vehicle is the most important fuel economy decision you will make.

Popularity: 2% [?]