How to Save Fuel

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. Tune your engine. A regularly tuned up car will not only mean a longer life span for your vehicle but can also guarantee better gas mileage. If you follow the recommendations from your car manufacturer, tuning your engine can increase you gas mileage by an average of 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. Purchase the minimum required octane to fill up your gas tank. Typically, regular octane is the recommended gas for most cars. If your engine is running smoothly, save your money and buy a lower octane gas. Make sure that you don't buy a higher octane gas than your owner's manual calls for.

7. Utilize a fuel injector cleaner or purchase a fuel system treatment. Carburetors, fuel injectors, intake valves, intake courts and combustion chambers commonly have carbon deposits that will form on them. The fuel will vaporize poorly when carbon deposits block the injectors. Such things as fuel cleaners and additives can increase your car's miles per gallon.

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. Inspect your gas cap. Check the seal to make sure it is complete and in good condition. It allows gas to readily escape from the car, if it is damaged.

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. Author Biography - Personal Finance Expert John Hart from Financial Info Hub focuses his efforts providing innovative ideas on the best ways to save money in all areas of personal finance. For a limited time, you can sign up to his financial tips newsletter absolutely free and learn the best strategies for saving money.