Better Gas Mileage – Be on Mother Nature’s Fuel Efficient Nice List

It seems like every gas station has a coupon book or membership program encouraging you to save money on gas. That’s great, we all love saving money, but sometimes it seems like saving 5 cents doesn’t do much good, especially when it costs $20 to $40 to fill your tank. We did some research and found the best ways to conserve fuel:

Lead Feet = Bad Mileage

From the start, we usually have an understanding that driving on the highway achieves better gas mileage than driving on city roads. However, this does not mean that the faster that you drive the better gas mileage you will receive. Think of it like a Bell curve; up to about 55 mph you will achieve better gas mileage the faster you go, but when you pass 55 mph, you will start to burn more fuel. Just like with most things in life, moderation is best. Drive a moderate speed for the most efficient use of fuel.

Accessories Can Be A Drag

Reducing wind drag can dramatically increase your mileage. Consumer Reports did a test with a bike rack on a Honda Accord and found that the bike rack reduced the mileage by about 15 mpg - that’s a big difference! And when they put bikes on the rack it was even worse. So, remember to always take extra cargo racks off your vehicle when not in use.

Cold Starts Burn Fuel Faster

Thankfully, we are beginning to see less of this, but living in Minnesota, we have all experienced having to sit in a cold car waiting for the opportunity to see out the windshield. Unfortunately for us, cars really work best in warm climates. That’s why it’s important to let your car warm up before putting the car in drive. Think of it as stretching before a race, an athlete wouldn’t jump out of bed and start running as fast as they can, and neither should your car. The extra gas you use letting your car warm up will save much more on the roads.

Steady Does It - Stay Consistent

Speaking of stopping and going - drive consistently. Stepping on the gas at the stop light to beat the person next to you into the merge lane only reduces your gas mileage. It might save you a few extra seconds, but it does a number on your car. This is the same for braking hard, you car is working hard to keep up with pressured acceleration and braking and it can take its toll over time. Consistent driving is not only good on your gas mileage, but it is also better for your engine, brakes, and tires.

If you would like to see how your car is performing (or not performing), stop into Tenvoorde. We will inspect your car for other fuel-efficient setbacks and get you on your way to better fuel efficiency.