Here are our top 10 ways to maximize gas mileage:
- Take it easy on the pedals
This is especially true when driving in heavy traffic or on busy city streets. Accelerating and hitting the brakes repeatedly is not only terrible for your car, but it can negatively affect your gas mileage. It may seem like you’re getting to your destination faster when you drive like this, but most often, it doesn’t help you move any quicker. Drive the speed limit (or follow the pace of traffic) and ease up on the accelerator.
- Listen to the fuel recommendations for your vehicle
Manufacturers make fuel type recommendations for a reason. It may be a little bit more money to fill your car with anything but the cheapest gas, but it could save you a second trip to the pump.
- Be mindful of driving with lots of weight
Going on a long trip with lots of passengers? You’ll most likely use more fuel than usual. This is even more true when it comes to using your car to haul things like campers and other trailers. An engine that is working harder requires more fuel, so don’t be surprised if you find yourself fuelling up more along the way.
- Inflate your tires to the correct pressure
According to Reader’s Digest, “60 per cent of the vehicles on the road have tires that are under inflated by at least 30 percent. That’s at least 9 psi below the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. That can cost you almost 7 per cent in wasted fuel. Plus, low air pressure causes premature tire wear, and that can cost almost $300 over the life of the tires.“
- Stay at the right speed
According to driving.ca, “Driving 110 km/h uses 10 per cent more fuel than 100 km/h, and 120 km/h about 20 per cent more, according to Natural Resources Canada, which says: “if it takes $10 worth of fuel to drive a certain distance at 100 km/h, it would cost $12 to travel that same distance at 120 km/h. That is like throwing a toonie out the window every 100 km.” Pay attention to your braking and acceleration, too, which can affect consumption.
- Avoid driving with the windows down
Driving with the windows down affect the ergonomics of your car, which uses up more fuel, especially on the highway. If you regularly go on long drives, keep the windows up to save at the pump.
The rising cost of gas is a constant frustration for drivers. Even with a fuel efficient car, you may find yourself fuelling up multiple times per week, and spending hundreds of dollars on gas. Keeping your mileage under control is good for your wallet, and your vehicle, which will save you money in the long run. Click here for more tips and tricks to make the most of your vehicle, including finding the best insurance rates for your car.
