by L G Hoel

Created on: July 30, 2008   Last Updated: February 25, 2010

You can do some very easy basic things to start saving money on gas. Examining your driving habits is a good starting point. Changing bad driving habits could save you the most money at the pump. There are some auto services and repairs that you can do by yourself, without being a certified mechanic. You need to buy a service manual for your vehicle and some basic tools, wrenches, screw drivers and a tire gauge. These items can be purchased at your local auto part’s store. This is a very small investment compared to one trip to Mr. Good Wrench.

1. Try lowering your driving speed to a slower but safe speed and watch your gas milage increase. You might get some unfriendly gestures from other motorists but you are saving the cash. If you decide to drive at a lower speed, give your rear view mirror more attention. Watch those high-speed drivers running on cruise control with a cell phone in hand.

2. Start checking your own tire pressures. To get an accurate reading always check the tire pressure when they are cold or before you drive the car very far. A hot tire will show higher pressure. The factory suggested tire pressures would be in your owner's manual or on a visible decal somewhere on your vehicle. Most service stations have an air hose. Small air compressors are not expensive. You might as well have your own air compressor.

3. Another low-cost gas saver is changing the engine air cleaner regularly. A worker in the automotive section of your big box store will help you get the right air cleaner. This is an easy project on most cars. If you hire someone to do it, the filter will cost more and you also pay for the labor.

4. Check your vehicle owner's manual for service schedules and have service done when your miles indicate service is due. Ask your maintenance people if they changed the fuel filter. Many service centers don't change the gas filter as regular part of their service. A clogged fuel filter will rob you of many miles per gallon.

5. Give yourself a driving test the next time you are on the road. You should always be driving with your eyes on the road ahead of you. When driving in city traffic you can learn to time your driving so you get to traffic lights when they are green. Stop and go driving takes more gas. Don't hurry to the next red light and have to use the breaks to make a complete stop. Do not tailgate the car in front of you. Did you ever see the car in front of you with the brake lights going on and off? You will find yourself

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