How to Get Better Gas Mileage

We are living in a challenging time.  As gas prices continue to rise, ( they are up 11 percent),  it is even more important that we know how to get better gas mileage.  There are several things that can help us increase our gas mileage and  off-set our rising fuel costs.

One of the most important things to remember is don’t be an aggressive driver.  Speeding, rapid acceleration and braking wastes gas.  You can increase your miles-per-gallon by 33% if you allow yourself more than enough time to reach your destinations.  By practicing sensible driving, we’d all be a lot safer and a little bit richer!

Another way to get better gas mileage is to adhere to the speed limit.  Every vehicle has a different range of speeds where their best fuel economy is reached.  But gas mileage can be quickly reduced at speeds above 60 miles per hour. Use your cruise control at speeds above 60 mph, if available, maintaining a steady speed saves gas.  By observing the speed limit you can save as much as 58 cents per gallon of gas.

Maintaining your car’s engine and keeping it tuned properly can increase your gas mileage as much as 4%, that’s a savings of 15 cents per gallon.  This may not seem like much, but every little bit helps.  So make sure your vehicle passes its emissions test and if it has any major problems, have them repaired.  Doing this can improve your gas mileage by as much as 40 percent.

Another simple task that can improve your gas mileage by 3% is to keep your tires inflated to the proper tire pressure.  When the tires are under-inflated, gas mileage is decreased.

Last but not least, you can get better gas mileage by making sure you are using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil for your vehicle.  If you are using a 5W-30 grade of motor oil in a vehicle that has been designed to use 10W-30 it can decrease your gas mileage.

Put all these tips into practice and you’ll be well on your way to getting better gas mileage from your vehicle.  We here at Express Care are here to help you maintain and repair your vehicles,  so give us a call at 303-691-2760 or come in and see us.