How To Get Better Gas Mileage

Get Better Gas Mileage Using These Simple Tips

How to get better gas mileage is a topic that comes up often on TV news programs, especially when gas prices spike upward for some reason. If you’re someone who wants know how to get better gas mileage but you’ve always thought it would be too difficult or too much trouble, you can benefit from the tips below. Doing these things not only save you money, but they also benefit the environment because you deplete less of the planet's natural resources and contribute less to possible climate change.

Here are some simple ways to get better gas mileage that you can begin today:

• Avoid sudden starts and stops
• Go the speed limit
• Plan errands so you get more done in one trip
• Use moderate acceleration - don’t floor it but don’t go so slow you bog down the engine
• Call ahead, get good directions and know where you are going to avoid unnecessary driving. Use a GPS system if you can.
• Keep your engine speeds between 1,200-3,000 RPMs
• Keep up-shift between 2,000-2,500 RPMs
• Get regular tune-ups to keep your engine running at peak efficiency
• Have regular maintenance done on the car
• Regularly keep air filters clean
• Stay in one lane as much as possible (zigzagging through traffic increases gas mileage)
• Keep your tires properly inflated
• Clean out excess junk in your car (carrying things around in the trunk adds to your vehicle’s weight and this more gas mileage)
• Use the windows more instead of the AC when weather permits
• Try an electric or a solar fan to cool your car
• Park in the shade and use reflective windshield shades to keep your vehicle cool. You'll use less air-conditioning this way.
• Avoid a gas guzzling machines if possible - trucks and SUVs use more gas than small to mid-size vehicles and should be avoided unless necessary for your work, etc.

And of course, one of the best ways to get better gas mileage is to stop driving your car. Whenever possible use an alternative transportation source. Walk or ride your bike if you’re not going far, carpool with a friend or family member, or make use of public transportation. When you follow these simple guidelines, you can save money, make your vehicle last longer and get better gas mileage by 5-15 percent - possibly even more.

If you're thinking about trading in your current gasoline powered car for one of the green vehicles that are now availabe, click on green vehicles. You can also learn more by reading our articles on flex fuel vehicles, hybrids and electric cars.