How to Save Gas

If you're like most Americans, you spend a lot of time in your car. Driving to and from work, picking kids up from soccer practice and running errands all eat into your time and your pocketbook. If you find yourself spending a big chunk of your income on gas for your vehicle, it's imperative that you find ways to save gas. Keep reading to find some quick and easy hints.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

1. Keep your car in tip-top shape. Regular maintenance is a quick and easy way to help your car run efficiently. Changing your oil every three months and making sure that your tires are properly inflated and aligned will go a long way toward helping you save gas and money.

2. Read up. Find out what octane gas your car should use, and stick with that. Most of the time, your car won't need a premium fuel and you'd be throwing money out the window by buying a higher octane fuel.

3. Watch how you drive. A heavy load, excess speeding and excessive braking and acceleration can all waste valuable fuel. If you have cruise control, use it! Driving in overdrive mode can also help you save fuel when you're on the highway.

4. Drive 55 on the highway. You'll use approximately 45 percent less fuel and save a lot of money on speeding tickets.

5. Nix idling for extended periods of time. Running your engine needlessly is a waste of gas.

6. Carpool or take public transportation. This is one of the easiest ways to save gas. Better yet, bike or walk to work.

7. Buy a better car. If you have a large gas hog, consider trading it in for a more fuel-efficient model.