The following are the 10 most effective ways to save fuel on your car:
1. Gentle Acceleration and Braking
Always set your car gently in motion. Aggressive driving, that includes fast starts, weaving in and out of traffic, harsh breaking, etc should be avoided. It does not save much time, but wastes a lot of fuel. It also wears out different car components such as breaks and tires faster.
2. Cut the Engine at Red Signals
When you hit a red signal, it’s good to turn your car off. You should not leave the car idling. Prolonged idling creates excess emissions and wastes fuel.
3. Don’t Treat the Road Like a Runway
There is no doubt that speed thrills, but speeding turns your vehicle into a fuel guzzler. In order to ensure optimum utilization of fuel, it is important that the vehicle is driven at appropriate speeds. Keeping your car around 55 mph instead of 65 mph, may save 10 to 15 percent of your fuel.
4. Avoid Extra Luggage
Avoid placing a lot of luggage on the roof rack. The luggage affects the aerodynamics of the car adversely due to increased air resistance while moving. This way, you might reduce fuel wastage by up to 5 percent.
Also remove unnecessary weight from your car such as unneeded items in the trunk. They make the engine work harder and consume more fuel.
5. Avoid Using Air Conditioners or Heaters If not Required
Switching on the air conditioners results in added fuel usage. So, if not required, their usage must be avoided. Park your car in shade, to keep it cool, so as to reduce the need for air conditioning.
6. Proper Maintenance of the Vehicle
Maintaining the vehicle is important for optimizing utilization of fuel. The engine must be tuned regularly and the vehicle must be taken to service center as per schedule. Replace air filters as recommended. Always consult the Owner's Manual for proper maintenance.
7. Keep the Windows Closed at High Speeds
When driving at high speeds, make it a point to keep your windows closed. Open windows are fine up to speeds of 50 mph. Driving with the windows open at highway speeds increases aerodynamic drag on the vehicle and reduces fuel economy.
8. Correct Tire Pressure
The tires should be inflated as per the recommended tire pressure. Proper tire pressure may save 3-4 percent of fuel. If the tires are under-inflated, there is an increased rolling resistance and reduce fuel economy. Moreover, tires also wear more rapidly.
9. Prefer Walking or Bicycling for Short Distances
When short distances are to be covered, instead of reaching for the car keys, walk to your destination. If the distance is too long for walking, hop on your bicycle. It will do good to your health too.
10. Miscellaneous Tips
It is wise to plan and consolidate trips to avoid congested routes and running into traffic jams. Park your vehicle, rather than using “drive-up” lanes. Use high-quality fuel with the lowest appropriate octane rating.
By following these measures we can benefit ourselves by saving money and also save earth from excessive harm. Since there is a lot of benefit involved, why not start doing it?
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