10 Tips for Fuel Efficiency

Easy ways to improve fuel economy: change driving habits and maintain your car.

• Maintenance
  Regular maintenance checks keep your car running efficiently. Replacing a dirty engine air filter can improve fuel economy up to 20%.
• Minimize AC
  Air conditioning drops fuel efficiency about 5%. Use it only on the highway. Roll down the windows for city driving at lower speeds.
• Travel Light
  An extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel economy up to 1%, especially on smaller vehicles.
• Speed Limits
  The higher the speed, the more fuel your car consumes. Lowering your speed by 5 to 10 mph can improve your fuel economy up to 14%.
• Fast Pass
  An electronic transponder on toll roads saves fuel by minimizing tollbooth slowdowns and stops.
• Check Tires
  The rolling resistance of underinflated tires reduces fuel economy. They can also overheat and blow out.
• Cruise Control
  Maintaining a steady speed saves gas. But be careful using cruise control on slippery roads; it reduces vehicle control.
• Drive Smoothly
  Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, which use up to 30% more fuel on the highway and up to 40% in the city.
• Fuel Economy
  If you notice your car needs a refill sooner than expected, it may indicate a need for car service.
• Rush Hour
  If your employer supports "flex time" work hours, use this option to commute and run errands during off-peak traffic periods.