How to Get Better Gas Mileage

Nowadays, it’s common to hear about the most efficient vehicles, many Omaha buyers think they need to upgrade their vehicle when they think of how to improve fuel economy. However, you may be surprised to learn that changing your driving habits can help you maximize your fuel efficiency.

Lighten Your Load

It may be surprising to learn that as little as 100 pounds of extra cargo could reduce your fuel efficiency. Of course, it’s always good to have an emergency kit in your car, but little things like backpacks, books or sports equipment could be affecting your gas mileage. Additions to the outside of your vehicle can have the same effect. Roof racks, bike racks, cargo boxes, tires, etc. all increase wind resistance and decrease efficiency.

One option for adding some cargo space, without increasing wind resistance, is to get a rear-mounted cargo box. Relative to the roof-mounted counterparts, the impact on fuel economy is significantly lower.

Minimize Your Idle Time

An increasingly common feature on updated vehicles is the stop-start system that minimizes idle time when you’re at a stop light or drive through. Efficiency is increasingly important, whether saving money on gas or decreasing your environmental impact. You may be surprised to learn that when your vehicle is idling, you may be using 1/5 to 7/10 of a gallon of fuel per hour.

Maintain Your Speeds and Follow the Speed Limit

Once your vehicle surpasses 45-50 mph, you further lose fuel efficiency. After 50 mph, the gas mileage becomes increasingly lower. When you have the opportunity, try to use cruise control and stay at the speed limit. Try not to speed up superfast or slow down quickly, either of these abrupt actions can decrease your fuel efficiency.

Keep an Eye On Your Tires

If your tires aren’t inflated to the proper level you could have multiple issues come along, including: a 3% increase in fuel consumption, worn down treads, and increased risk of an accident. Along with your braking system, your tires are one of the first lines of defense when you’re driving.

Stick to Your Routine Maintenance

It’s common for people to put off their routine maintenance steps: cleaning and replacing air filters, spark plugs and other connecting pieces. You can look into your vehicle’s specific maintenance routine needs, and stick to it. This step can make a difference when you are figuring out how to get better gas mileage in Beatrice.

Get More Tips with Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln to Maximize Efficiency

Our team, located outside Hickman, is eager to share with you the best tips to make your vehicle as efficient as possible. Come visit our team at Sid Dillon Buick of Lincoln to check out our inventory of vehicles, and feel free to contact us to make an appointment for a visit.