9 Ways to Save Money on Gas (and Lower Your Emissions)

Every day, we hear about increasing climate change disasters and increasing gas prices. There’s never been a more pressing time to improve gas mileage. Every drop of fuel saved contributes to reduced carbon emissions and a healthier environment. 

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Even if you can’t yet invest in an electric car, there are several practical ways to get better gas mileage without making significant sacrifices. 

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1. Regular Vehicle Maintenance

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Ensure your car is well-maintained with regular servicing. Regular oil changes, air filter replacements, and tire maintenance can significantly boost gas mileage. Proper maintenance prevents engine inefficiencies and reduces fuel consumption.

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2. Check Tire Pressure

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Keep your tires properly inflated according to the manufacturer's recommendations. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, reducing gas mileage. Regularly inspect and maintain tire pressure to optimize fuel efficiency.

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3. Drive Smoothly

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Avoid aggressive driving behaviors such as rapid acceleration and abrupt braking. Smooth driving reduces fuel waste and minimizes wear and tear on your vehicle. Use cruise control on highways to maintain a consistent speed.

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4. Reduce Idling

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Turn off your engine when parked or waiting for an extended period. Idling consumes fuel without moving the vehicle, resulting in unnecessary emissions. Restarting your car uses less fuel than idling for long periods.

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5. Plan Efficient Routes

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 Combine errands to reduce the number of trips you make. Plan routes to avoid traffic congestion and minimize stop-and-go driving. Consider using GPS apps that provide real-time traffic updates to choose the fastest routes.

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6. Travel Light

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Remove unnecessary items from your vehicle to reduce weight. Extra weight decreases gas mileage, so only carry what you need for your trip. Roof racks and carriers also create aerodynamic drag; remove them when not in use.

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7. Use the Right Fuel

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Use the recommended octane rating for your vehicle. Higher-octane fuel is not necessarily better; it can be a waste of money for many vehicles. Consult your owner's manual for the appropriate fuel type.

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8. Maintain a Consistent Speed

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On highways, maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary lane changes. Cruise control can help with this! Consistent speeds improve gas mileage by reducing the need for acceleration and deceleration.

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9. Consider Public Transportation

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You can’t get better gas mileage than when you take public transit. Whenever possible, use public transportation, carpool, or bike for short trips. Electric and hybrid vehicles offer excellent gas mileage alternatives with reduced emissions.

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Improving gas mileage is a practical way to reduce your carbon footprint while saving money on fuel costs. By following these tips and making a few adjustments to your driving habits and vehicle maintenance routine, you can contribute to a greener, more sustainable future. Small changes can lead to significant improvements in gas mileage, benefiting both your wallet and the environment.