Tips on How Drivers Can Save Gasoline

BUSINESS/CONSUMER SERVICES Tips on How Drivers Can Save Gasoline

The higher price of gasoline is prompting many consumers to look for ways to save on fuel. From taking alternative transportation to vehicle maintenance, here are some tips to take the pressure off your pocketbook at the pump:

• Don't speed. Driving within the speed limits can reduce fuel consumption. Tests show that most cars use about 10 per cent less fuel when driven at 100 kilometres an hour instead of 110 km/h.

• Use the vehicle's flow-through ventilation as an alternative to air conditioning.

• Get tune-ups regularly. Maintain your car and follow the recommended maintenance schedule. A poorly tuned engine can increase fuel consumption by 15 per cent to more than 50 per cent or more.

• Use cruise control to set the car's cruising speed and take your foot off the gas pedal. Maintaining a constant speed on long trips may reduce fuel consumption on flat terrain.

• Turn the engine off rather than letting it idle while waiting for someone. One minute of idling uses up more fuel than restarting your engine.

• Keep tires inflated. Underinflated tires can increase your fuel consumption by five per cent. The vehicle manufacturer's specified pressure can be found on a label located in the glove compartment, on a door post, or in your owner's manual.

• Plan ahead to allow sufficient time to reach your destination. Driving "against the clock" leads to speeding and wastes fuel.

• Do you really need to drive? Consider walking or riding a bike in mild weather or taking year-round public transit. Consider alternating driving with others who work near you or whose children attend the same activities as your children.

• Use snow tires only in winter. Snow tires in winter will save on fuel by giving better traction on snow and ice but will increase fuel consumption in spring and summer.

• For the new car buyer, a fuel-efficient car is the first step in reducing fuel consumption and saving money. For example, air conditioning can increase fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. Certain common options, like power windows and power seats, add weight that also makes the engine less efficient.

• Remove roof racks when they are not needed. A loaded roof rack can increase fuel consumption by up to five per cent.

• Combine errands into one trip. Plan ahead and don't make two trips when one will do.

• Keep records of your vehicle's fuel consumption and review them regularly to be aware of sudden changes in fuel efficiency. Sudden changes may mean a leak or mechanical problems or a change in driving style.