Practice coasting to a stop instead of slamming down on the breaks. Coasting to a stop uses less gas and causes less pollution and wear on your brakes. Drive the speed limit. By driving 10 mph slower, it lowers your fuel economy by 10 percent, according to fueleconomy.gov. Try to avoid stop-and-go traffic, which burns gas and increases pollutants released in the air. Remove heavy objects from your car before long trips, which reduces fuel economy. Use cruise control whenever possible.
Keep your tires filled to the recommended air pressure. Check the tire pressure monthly and before and after long trips. Switch to low-rolling-resistance tires, which improve fuel economy by 4 percent, according to fueleconomy.org. Keep track of your fuel economy, because if it changes, this could mean something is wrong with the car. Get regular tune-ups, change the oil when suggested and have your emission control system checked regularly. When a car runs smoothly, it uses less fuel.
Use regular unleaded gasoline unless your car specifically requires a higher grade. According to greenercars.org, the higher grades do not improve fuel economy or performance. To prevent spills and a waste of gasoline, don't top off the gas tank. In cold weather, fill the gas tank before it reaches below a half a tank. This will prevent the gas from freezing. Steer clear from gas-saving gadgets that, according to the Federal Trade Commission, usually don't offer any benefit.
Park in the shade during warm months, to minimize evaporation of fuel, and park in the sun during cold months, to prevent your car from getting as cold as possible. This will help you to use less immediate heat when you re-enter the car, according to greenercars.org. Keep the car in a garage as often as possible, to reduce the wear on your car from poor weather conditions. When parking outside, use windshield shades to prevent summer heat an winter frost.
To save the most energy possible, opt to make lifestyle changes that will reduce the amount of energy you use and the amount of pollution you distribute. Always drive your most fuel-efficient vehicle, and consider trading in an old car for a more fuel-efficient option. According to consumerenergycenter.org, driving a hybrid car could provide you with a tax credit from the government. Telecommute instead of driving to work if your employer offers this option, carpool with others as much as possible, use public transportation when available, or ride your bike or walk to places nearby.
