Get More Mileage from Your Tank
For months we have seen prices climbing at the pumps, which leaves everyone looking for ways to get better gas mileage – or even looking to trade in a gas guzzler for a more fuel-efficient model. No matter what kind of car you drive, we have some tips to help you drive more efficiently and save money:
- Properly inflate tires (this video can help)
Only 17 percent of cars have all four tires properly inflated, yet the U.S. Department of Energy reports that proper tire inflation can improve fuel economy by up to three percent. It’s important not only to check tire pressures at least once a month, but also make sure it’s done correctly; a survey found 85 percent of motorists don’t know how to properly check tire pressure. Check the pressure when the tires are cold and have not been driven on recently. Tires should be inflated to the pressure levels recommended by the vehicle manufacturer, NOT the pressure levels stamped on the tire sidewall. The proper pressure levels can be found on a sticker on the driver’s side door jamb or in the owner’s manual.
- Drive the speed limit
Slowing down to observe the speed limit can not only conserve fuel but also avoid a speeding ticket. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that each 5 mph driven over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.24 per gallon for gas. Leave yourself plenty of time to reach your destination to avoid feeling rushed so you can arrive safely and with a little more fuel in the tank.
- Let AAA find the lowest gas prices
Drivers equipped with the AAA TripTik Mobile iPhone or Android application can find the lowest gas prices close to home or on the road. Using AAA TripTik Mobile, the first free app offering frequently updated gas prices, motorists can compare fuel costs at stations near their location or in a specified area. The AAA app’s GPS technology enables users to quickly locate stations on a map and see the price for all available grades of gasoline. AAA also provides gas station location and fuel price information at AAA.com with the online TripTik Travel Planner.
If you are considering buying a newer, more fuel-efficient vehicle to save money on gas, there are more options than ever before. More and more car makers are offering hybrid versions of their vehicles, and more manufacturers are offering electric cars. Some of the most fuel-efficient cars on the market get over 40 mpg on the highway. Just a few of the highly fuel-efficient models available include the Toyota Prius, Honda Civic Hybrid, Honda Insight, Volkswagen Jetta TDI, and Chevy Volt.
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Fuel Cost Calculator
Using current gasoline prices from AAA's daily, online Fuel Gauge Report, as well as the latest highway fuel economy ratings from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the AAA Fuel Cost Calculator estimates the amount and cost of gasoline needed to complete a vacation trip.
» Calculate the estimated fuel cost of your trip. |
