Eco-Friendly Driving Tips To Help Save Fuel
It’s a given that one of the best things that could happen to planet Earth would be if everybody who owns a car, or rents one, or borrows one just stopped driving. Of course that’s not going to happen and, barring a miracle, we are going to keep on burning fossil fuel for some time to come. In the meantime, here are some of the best eco-friendly ways to help you save fuel:
Service Vehicle
Take your car in for service on a regular basis. Having your fuel system checked out to ensure that it is functioning correctly, and getting your tire pressure checked so that your tires are properly inflated can save you money on fuel. Cars that have tires which are low on air or problems with the fuel system use more gas and are subject to breaking down.
Have the exhaust and emissions on your car checked by your mechanic on a regular basis. If your vehicle was built in 1985 or later then your exhaust system is specially made to reduce emissions. Don’t allow the components of your exhaust system to break down, as it can negatively affect your emissions and your fuel consumption.
Lighten Your Load
When driving your car don’t take anything with you that you don’t have to. Necessities are considered things like a spare tire and a first aid kit, a jack, anything required for repairing your car and vehicle safety. If you start letting yourself keep unnecessary items in your car they will quickly accumulate and the heavier the car is, the more fuel is expended.
Something else which wastes a lot of fuel is loading a roof rack or the trunk with tons of things you don’t even need. Everything you put into your car requires more fuel to move, which only increases the amount of fuel you burn.
Eco-Friendly Driving Techniques
Eco-friendly driving is an excellent way to save on fuel. Rather than pulling away from a red light in a burst of speed, take it slow and gradually increase the speed. You should do the same when breaking.
Another thing you can do is not to idle your car unless you are in traffic. Check your speed often and try and keep it at or below the official speed limit. Preferably never drive over 65 mph and try and keep your speed below that number. When you drive faster than this rate, you are battling wind resistance, and thus you are burning more fuel. You’d be surprised at the difference this makes in your mileage.
Restrict Air Conditioner Use
Restrict the use of your air conditioner as much as possible, because the air conditioner can burn through the gas surprisingly fast. You can always have the fan on or even lower your window.
Read Your Cars Manual
Read the manufacturer’s recommendations for the type of oil you should be using in your car and switch if necessary. If you can, use synthetic or eco-friendly motor oil in your car’s engine. This can raise your gas mileage and keep your engine running smoothly.
These are just some of the ways you can conserve fuel on your next road trip.
What are some of the ways you and your family save money on gas for your car, truck or van? Share your tips and advice in the comments section below.
