How to Achieve Better Fuel Efficiency

Gas prices are high as usual and everyone is looking to save a buck. You definitely want to get the most out of every gallon of gas you put in your car. In fact, you should treat it as if you had to personally siphon it out of the gas pump if you really want to feel like you're being efficient. We've come up with some tips to help you achieve optimal fuel performance.

Factors Related to Driving

No matter what car you drive, it is the way you drive that matters most. If you follow ideal driving protocol, you can make your car travel that extra mile. Avoid speeding and frequent braking and accelerating. Drive smoothly, as if there was a sleeping baby in your car that didn't like when you drove too fast.

If you're driving a car with a manual transmission, try to keep the gears within acceptable range and not driving like Mario Andretti. If your car has an automatic transmission, you'll have less ability to control your fuel efficiency, but still, don't drive like Dale Earnhardt Jr.

Factors related to Car Care

Avoid excessive idling and unnecessarily switching the car on and off. Don't rev your engine like you're an extra on Fast and the Furious.

Try to avoid driving around with heavy things in your car that weight you down and burn more fuel. This doesn't mean your heavy friend Carl can't catch a ride with you, just take the 100 lb. dumbells out of the car when you get home from the gym.

Perform regular maintenance and keep an eye out for worn spark plugs, clogged fuel filters, an out-of-tune engine and O2 sensors as they will all affect vehicle performance and lower your overall fuel efficiency. Properly maintained and serviced cars will save you some money

Keep your tires inflated properly as under-inflated tires cause the car to use more power and burn more fuel. Check your vehicle owner's manual or inside the driver's side door frame for the manufacturer's recommended tire pressure.

While running the A/C tends to burn more fuel, driving on the highway with the windows wide open creates drag and burns even more. It's important to be mindful of what you're doing when driving in various conditions, especially if you're looking to conserve fuel.