GAS

Gas Saving Tips by Jonathon Hartman

Do you remember when you could purchase a full tank of gas for less than twenty-five dollars? It seems like that was ages ago. Then, gas mileage was not a big concern of mine. That is no longer the case. I want to save every extra mile per gallon that is humanly possible. I'll let you in on my top ten secrets on how to increase your gas mileage.

1. Keep your engine tuned. A car that is maintenance on a regular schedule will have a longer life, and it will also get better gas mileage. Following the car manufacturer's recommendations; a tuned engine will increase your gas mileage by up to four percent.

2. Replace your engine oil. Minimizing friction and engine heat and reducing gas consumption can be accomplished by using the proper grade and type of oil. Change your oil according to the maintenance schedule in your owner's manual. This is a great way to increase your gas mileage by up to two percent.

3. Check and repair air filters regularly. Filters make your car's engine more effective. It can create more force and energy which results in better gasoline consumption. When replacing your filter, look for quality paper filters rather than reusable air filters. Replacing clogged filters can increase gas mileage up to ten percent.

4. Inflate your tires properly. Under inflated tires waste fuel and wear out the tire tread. Use the tire pressure imprinted on the tire wall since it's the most accurate. Proper tire pressure can increase your gas mileage up to three percent. When checking your tire pressure, make sure you use an accurate tire gauge. It's worth the few extra dollars to buy a better tire gauge.

5. Check your wheel/tire alignment. If you wheels or tires are out of alignment, the car will pull to either the right or left. This pulling requires extra energy to continue in a straight line and thus reduces gas mileage.

6. Fill your gas tank using the minimum required octane. For most cars, regular octane is the recommended gas. Buying higher octane gas is a waste of money unless your engine is knocking. Check your owner's manual for the right octane level and do not buy a higher octane gas.

7. Get a fuel system treatment or use a fuel injector cleaner. Carbon deposits commonly form on carburetors, fuel injectors, intake valves, intake ports and combustion chambers. These carbon deposits plugged up the injectors which causes the fuel to vaporize poorly. These treatments or cleaners can help you maximize your vehicle's fuel efficiency.

8. Unload your trunk. Take out the things that you don't need from the trunk and just keep the basic emergency equipment. If you reduce the weight of your car, it will improve you gas mileage.

9. Anything attached to your roof will increase drag, so avoid this. Wind resistance can play a big part on the miles per gallon that you car uses.

10. Check your gas cap. Make sure that the seal is not broken or cracked. It can actually let gas simply escape from the car.

Because gasoline prices are continually rising, it is wise to take a bit of time and effort to maintain your car and keep it in peak condition. You can spend your money on the things that you enjoy, simply by using these tips to help reduce your gasoline costs.

ARTICLES SOURCE: www.goarticles.com