Methods to Increase Fuel Mileage
Fuel economy is on everyone's mind in these days of multi-dollar per gallon gas prices. When it costs as much as $50, $60, or even $70 to fill the tank, it pays to pay attention to methods of reducing transportation costs. One way to reduce these costs is to take steps to increase the gas mileage of your vehicle. Here are some cheap and simple tips on how to improve your vehicle's fuel economy.
Slow down
As speeds increase, so do the factors of wind resistance, rolling resistance, and the friction of moving parts of the vehicle. Because of these increased loads on the vehicle's engine, it takes additional energy to drive a vehicle a higher speeds. Reduced average speeds of even five miles per hour will result in increased fuel mileage, and the gains go up as the speed comes down. Driving at a slower speed is not only better for gas mileage, it has the added benefit of increased safety. Also, try to maintain a constant speed when driving on the highway, as acceleration and deceleration use more fuel.
Reduce weight
It takes more energy to move heavier objects, so the less you carry in your vehicle, the better your fuel mileage will be. Look for items in the trunk or hatch of your vehicle that can be left at home. Books, magazines, briefcases, and even trash can contribute to the weight of your vehicle. Little objects can add up to large savings, so keep your golf clubs in the garage until it's time to hit the links.
Tire inflation
Tires flex more at lower inflation pressures. Because of this additional flexing of the under-inflated tire, it takes increased energy to drive and roll the tire. The vehicle owner's manual contains the proper inflation specifications for your tires. In addition, most modern vehicles will have a stamp or sticker inside the driver's door frame that contains the proper tire size, loading, and inflation information. Even though increased tire pressures do result in increased fuel mileage, resist the urge to inflate your tires beyond the manufacturer's recommendation. Overinflated tires can create safety hazards.
Tune up
Older vehicles with higher miles may benefit from what is commonly called a "tune up." During this type of vehicle service, parts that are worn, dirty, or out of adjustment are either replaced or readjusted to factory specifications. Air filters, spark plugs and wires, distributor caps and rotors, crankcase ventilation valves, and ignition timing settings are all candidates for adjustment or replacement. Check the engine sensors also, as these can sometimes present inaccurate measurements to the computer. Gas mileage is increased when the efficiency of these parts and systems is restored.
Synthetic fluids
Today, most automotive lubricants can be purchased in synthetic form. Synthetic lubricants contain chemicals that were created in laboratories to reduce friction and resist chemical breakdown. While these types of fluids are somewhat more expensive, they usually provide the benefit of reduced friction between moving parts of your vehicle and increase the maintenance intervals between fluid changes. Two of the best systems in your vehicle to switch to synthetic fluids are the engine and differential oils. The reduced friction in these areas alone will result in a noticeable increase in fuel mileage. Other lubricants that can be changed to synthetic to realize an increase in gas mileage include the transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and even the wheel bearing grease.
With today's fuel prices, it just makes sense to evaluate your vehicle and find ways to increase your gas mileage. The bottom line to increase fuel economy in any vehicle is to increase the efficiency of the vehicle. Almost anything that can be utilized to increase efficiency will have the added benefit of increasing fuel mileage. By paying close attention to the maintenance and operation of your vehicle, you can find cheap ways to increase its fuel mileage, putting more money back in your pocket.
