Gas prices are rising, and finding ways to save money at the pump is becoming increasingly important. Whether you’re on a road trip or just commuting to work, maximizing your fuel economy can make a big difference in your budget.

Our California lemon lawyer offers ten tips for saving gas while driving so you can get the most out of your tank. 

 

10 Tips to Get the Most Out of a Tank of Gas

 

Limit AC Usage

Air conditioning uses up fuel, especially when it’s hot outside. If it’s not too warm, you can save gas by opening the windows or using the car’s vents. However, when it gets too hot, you should use the AC to cool the cabin and lower humidity for the sake of comfort and alertness while driving.

 

Stay at Half

In chilly winters or when fuel might be scarce, keeping your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full is a good idea. This is crucial for holiday travels or when roads are crowded and slow. Having enough gas gives you flexibility in refueling — that way, you don’t have to worry about running out of fuel.

 

Travel Less

If you can, cut down on your trips or hold off on running errands when gas is scarce or prices are high. Planning your outings carefully and combining errands can reduce unnecessary driving and save gas.

 

Check Tire Pressure Regularly

Look at the doorframe sticker or the owner’s manual to find the right tire pressure. You also don’t want to put too much air in your tires because they can wear out evenly, giving you less grip on the road and making your ride rougher.

 

Pay Attention to Aerodynamics

Think about how your vehicle’s design affects how much fuel it uses. Take off roof racks — even if empty — when you’re not using them because they can make your car less aerodynamic, especially on highways.

 

Obey Speed Limits

How you drive affects how much fuel your car uses. If you stick to speed limits and drive gently, you’ll use less gas. Tests by Consumer Reports showed that slowing down from 65mph to 55mph improved fuel efficiency by six mpg for an Altima and eight mpg for a RAV4. Driving faster uses more fuel, so staying within speed limits saves gas and keeps you safer. 

 

Check Online for Gas Prices

Before you start your journey, use apps or websites like GasBuddy to see where you can find the cheapest gas nearby or along your route. Gas stations off main highways and outside city centers typically offer lower prices. You might also find good deals at warehouse stores or large travel centers.

 

Buy Good-Quality Gas

Higher-quality gasoline can affect how well your car runs and how efficiently it uses fuel. Look for gas stations that offer Top-Tier gas, like Chevron, Costco, Exxon, Mobil, and Shell, which meet stricter standards and include detergents that clean engine buildup. While it’s best to give your car Top-Tier gas whenever possible, switching during a shortage or when traveling is okay.

 

Drive Evenly

Try not to accelerate or abruptly brake if you can help it. Quick bursts of speed or frequent braking can considerably lower your car’s fuel efficiency. Instead, drive steadily and anticipate traffic flow to use less fuel. Smooth driving also helps your engine, transmission, brakes, and tires last longer.

 

Skip the Premium (if not required)

You can save money by avoiding premium gas unless your car requires it. Most cars work just fine with regular gasoline, and using premium when you don’t need to can be an unnecessary expense. Look at your car’s fuel filler door to see what gas it recommends. If it says “recommended.” regular gas should be perfectly fine.

 

Gas Mileage FAQs

 

What Is Good Gas Mileage?

Gas mileage, also known as fuel efficiency, is how far a vehicle can go with a certain amount of fuel. It’s usually measured in miles per gallon (mpg) or liters per kilometer (L/100km). The higher the mpg or the lower the L/100km, the better the gas mileage. But what’s considered “good” gas mileage depends on the type of car, its size, and the driving conditions.

 

How Often Should You Fill Your Gas Tank?

How often you should fill up on gas depends on your driving habits and fuel tank size. Some people like to refill when their tank is halfway empty, while others wait until it’s almost completely empty.

It’s typically a good idea to keep at least a quarter tank of fuel to avoid running out unexpectedly. That said, during cold winter months or when there might be a shortage, it’s better to have half a tank of gas.

 

Need Lemon Law Advice? Contact Our California Attorneys Today!

On a separate note, if you’re experiencing issues with a defective vehicle and believe you may have a lemon law claim, our skilled attorneys are here to help! At Norman Taylor & Associates, we specialize in 2017 or newer lemon law cases and have a history of successful outcomes.

Call 818-244-3905 or contact us today for a FREE, no-obligation consultation, and let us fight for your rights as a consumer.

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