6 proven tricks to save fuel


1. Slow down

One of the best ways to save gas is to simply slow down. As speed increases, fuel economy decreases exponentially. If you’re one of the “top ten on the freeway,” try driving the speed limit for a few days. You’ll save a lot of fuel and your trip won’t take much longer.

2. Replace the air filter

Another really good fuel-saving strategy I once learned while talking to a race car driver at a drag race was to spend a little extra money on a performance air filter. For example, a K$N air filter may cost a bit more than your standard air filter, however it lasts longer and is reusable, improves horsepower and also improves fuel economy.

3. Check your tire pressure

Under-inflated tires are one of the main causes of reduced fuel economy. Tires lose air due to weather changes or just sitting idle about 1 psi per month.

4. Stay away from fancy extras

New wheels and tires can look great and can certainly improve handling. But if they are wider than the original tires, they are likely to create more rolling resistance and reduce fuel consumption. If you upgrade your wheels and tires, keep the old ones. I have sport fancy tires and aggressive tires on my own car, but keep the stock tires with a nice narrower tread performance tire in the garage. For long road trips, standard wheels provide a smoother ride and better economy.

5. Take the lead foot

You can save fuel immediately anywhere you drive by gently stepping on the accelerator. Quick starts and full throttle acceleration dramatically increase fuel consumption. It’s all a matter of degree: a light throttle saves more than a moderate throttle.

6. back to the classics

The biggest fuel savings come not from hybrid technology, but from the old standards: carpooling and public transportation. If you and just one friend or neighbor offset your commute to and from work, you’ll reduce your fuel consumption by about 50 percent. No other step will save you this much money. Also, if you have two vehicles in the household, leave the thirsty one in the garage as often as possible.