Saving Gas While Still Driving!

With gas reaching $4 a gallon there must be ways to use it more efficiently. Re-thinking the way we drive can be a challenge in our hurry up world but I have found several ways to save gas while driving.

Start with a fuel efficient vehicle. An increase in 10mpg fuel economy rating can save you $5,000 in fuel cost over five years, based on $4 per gallon.

Limiting the amount of time my car idles - Idling more than 10 seconds uses more fuel than restarting the engine. Turn your car off when parked or stopped for more than 10 seconds, except, of course, in Traffic!

It is not hard on the engine to turn it on and off. Frequent restarting has very little impact on the starter motor and battery.

Excessive idling can damage the engine. An idling engine isn't operating at its peak temperature, which results in incomplete fuel combustion. This leaves fuel residues that can contaminate oil.

Engines don't need more than 30 seconds to "warm up". Maybe this was true in the past but today's modern engines are ready to go.

Drive up windows are a waste of gas! Park your car and go inside when running errands at the bank, pharmacy, coffee stop and fast food dinner.

Take out the remote starter (or at least don't use it). How often have you forgotten and discovered the car has been running for 10 minutes or more. If it's winter - put on more clothes vs. expecting a toasty interior.

Don't be a Jack Rabbit! When starting from a dead stop, accelerate slowly.

Traveling at 55mph gives you up to 21% better gas mileage. Over 40mph the car has to overcome tremendous wind resistance.

Plan out your trips in advance. The most practical trip goes in order and in a straight line. Know where you are going and plan your trips that way.

Remove all the stuff from your back seat and trunk. Lighten the load that you are hauling around with you every day to save gas.

Keep your car well maintained. Check the tires for proper inflation; get filters and oil changed regularly. Keeping you car washed and waxed actually improves the aerodynamics and fuel savings.

Go at a slow and steady pace. No tailgating, no revving the engine at stops; no aggressive driving that cause you to drive the brake. Remember it was the turtle who won the race not the hare.

The price of gas isn't going down anytime soon, if ever. So let's use this resource wisely and the most cost effectively possible. No reason to stay at home but gallons of reasons to think it through before getting behind the wheel.