by Lisa Orme

Created on: August 02, 2008   Last Updated: August 15, 2009

How to Save Money on Gasoline

Even with the current stabilization (well, almost stable, anyways) in gasoline prices, people everywhere are still looking for ways to save money on gas costs. And who can blame them? Fuel costs topped $4.00 per gallon in 2008, which was practically double what people had been paying over the previous three years. And it's safe to bet your income didn't do the same. So it's no surprise that climbing gas costs have made a big impact on people's wallets, and they are much more price-conscious even now that prices have dropped.

So what's a hardworking person to do when gasoline prices climb? Well thankfully there are a few things that can help.

PROPER VEHICLE MAINTENANCE is essential. Regular oil changes every 5000 miles or every three months will do, but don't stretch beyond that. Get regular tune-ups. And if your engine doesn't seem to be running quite as smoothly, get it in for a look under the hood. The wrong fuel mixture, fouled plugs, or dirty air and fuel filters won't help our miles per gallon (mpg).

Check your tires' inflation regularly, and make sure they are inflated evenly to the manufacturer's recommendation for your vehicle. Under-inflating your tires will decrease your fuel economy between 3 and 4%, and over-inflating them will cause uneven tread wear to your tires. Any money you might save on gas by higher tire inflation will be lost to earlier tire replacement and unwarranted danger to yourself and others.

LIGHTEN THE LOAD. Excess weight in your vehicle will lessen your fuel economy, so make sure unneeded extra cargo is removed on a timely basis to get the most mpg out of that tank of gas. That being said; carpool whenever possible.

SHARING THE RIDE. It's not appropriate for everyone's situation, but there are often opportunities to share the ride. Look for someone at work who travels from the same direction as you do. Even one additional paying passenger sharing the expense will decrease your daily commuting costs. Also consider whether public transportation is an option. Sometimes the schedules don't work out, but often, with a little flexibility on your part, they can.

You may have to leave a bit earlier for work, but I know many people save money, make new friendships, and even learn to appreciate the non-driving time into work. It can be a great time to catch up on reading or planning time. And almost always, the cost of a bus, rail or subway pass is less expensive than the

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