Seven Ways to Improve Your Car's Gas Mileage

In today's economy, one of the most talkedfriction-reducing additive. Tests have shown that
about things among Americans is how to increaseeither of those two alternatives can increase fuel
fuel efficiency in our vehicles. As gas pricesefficiency by as much as 12 percent, which is a
continue to rise, that ongoing discussion isn't likelysignificant savings for something you'll have to add
to stop anytime soon. Here are seven ideas thatto your engine anyway on a regular basis.
you can use immediately to increase the4) Whenever possible, use your cruise control.
efficiency of your own vehicle...without spendingThis can boost your vehicle's efficiency quite a bit
much money...and some of them at no costand will make driving long distances more
whatsoever.comfortable in the process.
1) Unless it's oppressively hot outside, turn off5) When you're climbing hills, avoid trying to
your car's air conditioner. Running your airincrease your car's speed. During times like that,
conditioner puts an added strain on your engine,your engine is already working harder, so
thereby reducing its efficiency and increasing yourincreasing speed while climbing a hill and trying to
mile per gallon cost.go faster only decreases efficiency and adds to
2) If you find yourself stuck in stop-and-go trafficyour fuel costs.
on a regular basis, you'll save fuel costs (as well6) Remove accessories like luggage and boat
as frustration and time) by finding eitherracks from the top of your vehicle. Those racks
alternative routes to your destination or byreduce the overall aerodynamics of your vehicle,
making your trips at times when there will be lessthereby decreasing fuel efficiency.
congestion.7) Keep your windows closed when driving fast.
3) Always use good oil, whether it's synthetic orUse the air vent setting for fresh air to reduce
standard oil that's been treated with awind friction and optimize your gas mileage.