Reading Time: 8 minutes
Learning how to boost your car’s fuel economy can be a lot of fun and financially rewarding. Are you looking to save money on gas that will be good for the environment and your wallet? Luckily, we have many tips on how to save money on gas.
The U.S. relies heavily on vehicles, which account for over 40 percent of its oil consumption. Gasoline is an expense in the average household’s budget, and there is always room to save money on gas. Besides, there’s no reason not to save money on gas, right?
When you buy a new car, one of the first decisions you’ll have to make is whether it will be powered by gasoline or diesel. By making the responsible choice to save money on gas, you not only reduce your annual gas costs, but also reduce emissions that are harmful to the environment.
It can be quite disheartening as you watch the counter go from $40 to $50 when filling up the gas tank. In this article we will explore tips to help you save money on gas.
Secret Tips to Save Money on Gas
If you want to save money on gas, you can buy the cheapest gasoline and diesel, but that is not your only option. Use these other tips to save money on gas and maximize the mileage on your tank.
- Tip#1 – Memberships to warehouse clubs are available. Fuel prices at warehouse clubs and local competition that also sell gasoline, are often up to 25 cents cheaper. You can lessen your gas costs substantially by becoming a member of a warehouse club, and give you access to the other benefits that might exceed the cost of the membership.
- Tip#2 – Be healthier by driving less. Warming up a car to full operating temperature takes several miles. Cars emit more pollution and use more fuel during the warm-up period. Short distances can be covered by walking instead of driving, which will save money on gas and reduce carbon emissions.
- Tip#3 – It’s ok to do “normal”. The price of plus, super, and supreme gasoline is often higher, and it’s an unnecessary expense. Why not save money on gas and invest in premium fluids for your car instead?
- Tip#4 – You should charge it. Cash back is often offered on regular credit cards for gas purchases under certain conditions. Several credit cards give up to 5 percent back, so you can save money on gas.
- Tip#5 – Do a calendar check. It’s not just a myth that gasoline prices go up around holidays and long weekends, it actually does. Make sure you fill up before the Fourth of July road trip to save money on gas. Unless of course, you’re going to get a prize for spending the most on gas. Also, you’ll pay more for gas at the pump on weekends, so go midweek instead.
How Much You Can Save Money On Gas Depends on Your Car
The Bentley Meteor has officially been recognized as one of the world’s gas guzzlers. And the 2021 Mitsubishi Mirage is one of the cheapest most fuel-efficient cars. Believe it or not, the make and model of your car can impact how much money you spend on gas.
Below are some tips to consider to help you save money on gas:
- Tip#1: Consider a manual: A manual vehicle can use up to 10% more gas than an automatic.
- Tip#2: Choose a hybrid or electric vehicle: An electric car costs the same amount as a small gas-powered car. Due to government incentives, savings in energy, and lowered maintenance costs, an electric vehicle often pays for itself within a few years.
- Tip#3: Replace your next car with a more fuel-efficient model. A great way to save money on gas would be to choose your next car based on fuel efficiency and check its miles per gallon. Although the savings might be small, if you commute and drive every day, they add up. You can cut your yearly fuel budget drastically and save money on gas at the same time.
- Tip#4: Drive smarter. Unfortunately, the majority of cars today either aren’t gas efficient or offer so little gas savings that they aren’t worth considering. Focus first on cars that can save money on gas, and then consider making more changes to your habits. Using a sedan, SUV and a truck, you could save 33% to 38% on gas if you are a “calm” driver.
Vehicle Maintenance Can Help You Save Money on Gas
Along with homes and college education, cars rank among the top purchases consumers make. As opposed to real estate or a bachelor’s degree, a car is not an investment. Buying a vehicle is an expense that doesn’t end after the purchase.
Fuel is just one part of what it takes to operate a car. Maintaining and repairing a vehicle is required to keep it in good condition and to preserve its value. In order to get the best performance out of your car, you should maintain it.
Below are tips to consider when it comes to your safety and car maintenance.
- Tip#1: In-depth maintenance is important for your car and your pocket. Maintain your car’s engine efficiency by getting it serviced on a regular basis. Check the handbook to make sure that you are using the correct oil. Poorly maintained cars can consume up to 25% more fuel. So keep your vehicle in good shape as this will help you to save money on gas.
- Tip#2: Properly inflating tires not only ensures your safety but also helps you save money on gas. Are you aware that your car’s tires can impact fuel efficiency? A misaligned wheel can also cause an increase in gas consumption and tire wear. Fuel consumption can be reduced by up to 2% with correctly inflated tyres which means that you can save money on gas.
- Tip#3: Always use manufacturer recommended oil in your car’s engine. Many people think that it’s acceptable to simply pour any motor oil that they find into their engine. If you use a different grade of oil, the motor will still work, but it will not function as well. Use the exact oil recommended for your car in the owner’s manual to save money on gas.
How to drive more economically (and reduce your fuel bill at the same time)
Gas mileage can be improved by 4 percent after a tune-up. When you replace your car’s filter, its efficiency can improve by 10%, and using the recommended oil can save you up to 2%. If you replace a faulty oxygen sensor discovered during a tune-up, you will save up to 40% on fuel.
The way you drive your vehicle is important. Did you know you can save money on gas by the way you drive? Here are some tips to show you how.
- Tip#1 – Don’t race like your car is on fire. If you slow down your driving speed from 80mph to 70mph, you can save up to 25% on fuel. You can save another 10% of fuel if you slow down your driving speed from 70mph to 60mph.
- Tip#2 – Drive responsibly. Be aware of other drivers’ actions and their potential hazards. A car uses less fuel if it breaks and accelerates less. If you are in heavy traffic, for instance, avoid overtaking the car in front quickly, then braking suddenly.
- Tip#3 – Turn down the revs. It is better to use a high gear sooner rather than later. Many car owners allow their revs (revolutions per minute or RPM) to reach 3,000 per minute or even 2,500 per minute before changing gears. It is more efficient to move up a gear to 2,500 rpm (petrol) and 2,000 rpm (diesel).
- Tip#4 – Only idle your car for 30 seconds. A car engine should not be allowed to warm up for more than 30 seconds, even in cold weather. If your car idles, the engine uses up to 4 litres of gas every hour, which is more fuel than it took to start.
- Tip#5 – Consider driving habits. If you are regularly visiting 10 places, analyze how you can reach them more efficiently and make the most of your regular routes. Google Maps and Waze can help you find the shortest routes. You can save money on gas and time by cutting a mile and a minute off your weekly commute.
- Tip #6 – Learn to drive in snow and slippery road conditions.
Final Fuel Saving Tips…
Here are more amazing tips that you may not have considered that will save money on gas:
- Tip#1 – There are tools available to help you to compare gas prices and refuel at the right time at the best service station. With the Gasoline Watch tool, you can see how much gasoline costs per gallon, as determined by market prices. Consider GasBuddy or other tools you prefer.
- Tip#2 – Why not share a ride to save money on gas? Carpooling is not just about riding back and forth to work with another person. Carpooling can be helpful for a wide variety of regular activities, including driving children to practices, getting groceries and going to religious services. Maintain a full tank of fuel and consider sharing trips with others.
- Tip#3 – Don’t use premium gas. Keep in mind the difference between two words: “required” and “recommended”. The engine of your car must be filled with premium gas to avoid damage if it is required. If your car manufacturer recommends premium, use lower grades to save money on gas. A 25 cent per gallon premium gas would represent a $3.75 savings per 15 gallon tank.
- Tip#4 – Remove heavy weight from your car to save money on gas. Fuel consumption is increased by wind resistance. When you drive fast, close the windows, remove roof racks and boxes. You can save up to 20% of fuel over an entire year by removing a roof top cargo box. With every 12.5 lbs. load, fuel consumption increases by 1%.
- Tip#5 – Buy an electric block heater. By warming your car’s interior quickly, it makes it more cozy, but eco-friendly and less expensive. Block heaters allow you to save money on fuel by 15% for trips under 20 kilometers.
Enjoy a Long Road Trip and Save on Gas at the Same Time
You don’t have to give up your summer road trip because gas gets expensive. Don’t let high gas prices prevent you from taking part in one of America’s greatest travel traditions.
You might be surprised at how far a gallon will go depending on how you drive. A car that goes 75 mph burns fuel more quickly than one that goes 55 mph. Pay attention to how you use the gas pedal, how you load your car, and how you manage your air conditioning.
Gas purchases are often eligible for cash back with some provisions on regular credit cards. Amex Blue Cash Card gives 2% back on gas, whereas many gas station and grocery chain cards offer up to 5% back. Don’t be surprised if the cash-only station lists gas for less.
If you want to travel, why not consider shipping your car, which will also help you save money on gas? Companies such as NAT, which is an American transport company, will help you transport your vehicle.
Are you aware that you can?
- Save money on gas, time, and accommodations.
- Wont need to rent a vehicle and fly back.
- Enjoy the benefits of no wear and tear on your car
- Avoid adding extra miles to your car.
- Put your safety first by ensuring that accidents are minimized.
If you want to transport a car in the USA and you want to save money on gas take advantage of NAT auto transportation benefits. NAT company ships cars, SUVs, ATVs, RVs, boats, and buses to help you within 48 states. NAT understands how valuable your vehicle is to you and ensures you that you will receive your vehicle in a 100% safe condition.
In conclusion, you have given you tips on how to save money on gas. Remember not to drive your car as if it is on fire, and use the tips that you have been given. Drive safely, keep your eyes on the road, and don’t forget to wear your seat belt!