How to Improve Vehicle Gas Mileage

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By cajunc
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

Get better gas mileage from a car truck or SUV

Save money and the environment with little effort directed at improving the gas mileage in your vehicle, whether car, truck or SUV.

Many ways to save gasoline are obvious, but some of the recommendations by the Federal Government may not be known to you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

a vehicle
an interest in improving your gas mileage

Step 1

Be a careful driver, avoiding fast braking and acceleration. These are "gas and brake drivers" and they are not helping themselves or the environment. The Federal government has indicated about 1/3 improvement in gas mileage with careful driving habits.
Step 2

Slow down. An increase in speed lowers the miles per gallon in any vehicle. Any speed over 55 or 60 mph is not economy driving and will cost you money.
Step 3

Keep your vehicle in good condition, with a tuneup if needed and a new air filter periodically. Appropriate motor oil makes a difference, and keeping tires inflated to the correct pressure will increase gas mileage in any vehicle.
Step 4

Unload the car, even if it is a pickup truck or SUV. Every 100 pounds of load makes a difference in gas mileage. Do not carry items you do not need for that trip.
Step 5

Avoid excessive idling. If you get caught by a train, turn off the engine. Idling gets 0 miles to the gallon.
Step 6

Use a cruise control if your vehicle has one. This tactic has proven to save gasoline on most vehicles.
Step 7

Drive less. This is obvious, but learning to run errands at one time and in a reasonable sequence to avoid extra miles will save gas and wear on you and your car.