by Todd Pheifer

Created on: September 12, 2008   Last Updated: November 04, 2008

Where will it end?

The price of gas is a cause for great concern in today's society. While prices have seemed to level off for now, the last couple of years have seen some rather rapid growth. The positive aspect of price increases is that it has forced some people to rethink their car-buying purchases and their overall amount of driving. In addition, people are being more conscientious about HOW they are driving. Buying a more fuel-efficient car would be nice but it is not a realistic option for most people, at least not in the short term. In addition, people still have to get from place to place. They can cut down on vacations and combine their errands, but most people still need to get to work. Getting a job closer to home might be possible, but not exactly an easy process. Therefore, drivers are trying to improve on what they have and employ gas-saving techniques to their current situation. Here are a few brief thoughts on how to get better gas mileage.

Take your foot off the pedal

Speed plays a very large role when it comes to fuel economy. Unfortunately, we as a society are usually in a great hurry and we aren't necessarily interested in our fuel economy when we are late for work. Still, experts suggest that reducing freeway speed from 75 miles per hour to 65 miles per hour can save upwards of fifty to seventy-five cents per gallon. Granted, there are probably some fluctuations there but there is certainly evidence to suggest that reduced speeds will improve fuel economy.

Watch the jackrabbit life

Another way to get better gas mileage is to accelerate with more patience. Too often people are (again) in a hurry and they accelerate quickly from a stopped position. Their RPM's race and they speed quickly to their eventually cruising speed. People call it a "jackrabbit" start. Unfortunately, this type of driving uses more fuel because the engine must work harder to accomplish the high rate of acceleration.

Maintenance schedule

Finally, fuel economy is aided by a proper maintenance schedule. This includes things like air filters, fuel filters, and oil changes. Even keeping your car clean can help a bit with wind resistance. Also, experts suggest that keeping tire properly inflated can aid fuel economy. Overall, the best thing people can do is keep their car maintained and be patient when driving around town. It may take some extra discipline to save some fuel, but if people want to save money badly enough, they will take the proper steps to accomplish this goal.

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