Getting better gas mileage is good for the planet and your wallet. Whether commuting to work every day or running errands, a few easy tweaks to your driving habits and car care routine can make a real difference at the pump.
Driving steadily, keeping your tires inflated, and maintaining your car can all help you get the most miles out of each tank. Staying on top of maintenance can also help your engine run better and burn less fuel. In this article, we’ll explore practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you drive smarter, get more out of every tank, and even extend your car’s lifespan.
Five Ways to Be More Fuel Efficient
Fuel efficiency isn’t just about driving a hybrid or trading in for something smaller. It’s about how you drive and how well you take care of your car. Whether in a small car or a big SUV, these tips can help you get more for your money at the gas station.
Drive Smoothly and Steadily: Speeding up too fast, slamming the brakes, and constantly speeding can all drain your tank faster. Aggressive driving can cut your gas mileage by up to 30% on the highway and 40% in the city. Try to ease into stops and starts, and use cruise control on longer drives when you can to keep things steady and help save gas.
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated: Did you know that you'll waste gas if your tires are low on air? Underinflated tires make your engine work harder, burning more fuel. To ensure optimal fuel efficiency, check and inflate your tires to the recommended PSI at least once a month and before long trips. You can find the correct PSI in your owner's manual or the driver's side door sticker.
Lighten Your Load: The heavier your vehicle, the more gas it needs to move. If you have unnecessary cargo weighing down your trunk or a roof rack you’re not using, it might be time for a cleanout. Every 100 pounds of excess weight can reduce your MPG by about 1%, so travel light when you can.
Stay on Top of Regular Maintenance: Regular tune-ups keep your car running smoothly. Change your air filters, use the correct oil, and keep your engine in good shape. A well-maintained engine burns fuel more efficiently.
Limit Idling and Plan Efficient Routes: Sitting idle gets you nowhere, literally. Turn off the engine if you stop for over a minute or two, like waiting for someone or in a drive-thru. Also, try to plan your routes to avoid traffic and combine trips. Navigation apps can help find the quickest and most fuel-efficient paths.
Technology Tools That Help You Drive More Efficiently
Today’s tech makes it easier to drive more efficiently than ever. Apps and car features can help you track fuel use and find better routes.
GPS apps like Waze and Google Maps can help find the best route and avoid traffic congestion. Many newer cars also have eco-driving modes and fuel economy displays that give real-time information on how your driving habits impact fuel use. These can tell you if you’re accelerating too quickly or braking too hard.
How Smart Driving Can Lead to Insurance Savings
Driving efficiently and safely go hand in hand and can even save you money on your auto insurance. Insurance providers typically favor drivers with clean driving records. Consistently practicing safe driving habits, such as maintaining smooth acceleration and braking, reduces the likelihood of accidents, which can contribute to lower insurance premiums.
Some providers even offer usage-based insurance (UBI) programs that track your driving habits using an app or device. You might qualify for a discount if you drive safely and don’t rack up many miles.
Drive Smarter and Save With SelectQuote
Saving on gas isn’t just about getting more miles per gallon. It’s about making smart choices every time you drive. From keeping up with maintenance to driving smarter and checking your insurance, you can enhance your driving experience and save substantially by taking small steps.
At SelectQuote, we believe in empowering you with the tools and information you need to protect your budget and your peace of mind, starting at the gas pump. Whether saving on fuel efficiency or looking for the right auto insurance coverage, our licensed insurance agents can help you make informed and confident decisions. We provide unbiased quotes from some of the nation’s most trusted insurance providers so you can find the best policy for your budget.
