Money Saving Wednesday…Driving

Posted by Carolyn on Jul 22nd, 2009 in Money Savers, Pandemic | 1 comment

Gas prices are down this summer from last but they are still much too high to just ignore. With taxes and fees going up to pay for budget shortfalls we cannot ignore any chance to save some cash. This is the time of the year we often drive more so here are a few tips to save big.

Properly inflating your tires improves gas mileage because lower tire pressure causes more of the surface of the tire to come in contact with the road. This creates more friction and thus uses more gas. Figures from the EPA suggest that having your tires properly inflated can improve fuel economy by up to 3%. You can buy a cheap tire pressure gauge for under $2. If you spend $40.00 per week on gasoline that adds up to a $1.20 savings per week or $62.40 per year.

Remove excess weight from your car. You should always have a good auto survival kit in the trunk but check for unneeded items and get them out. The EPA states that an extra 100 pounds in your vehicle can reduce miles per gallon by up to 2%. A tool box can easily add that 100 pounds. The savings, if you are spending $40.00 a week on gas would be: $.80 per week or $41.60

Check and replace air filters regularly. How does this save gas? Dirt can clog air filters causing less oxygen to reach the engine. With less oxygen, your engine requires a higher percentage of gas for combustion. The fuel economy benefit from having a clean air filter vs. a clogged one can be up to 10%, again, according to the EPA. The savings, spending that same $40.00: $4.00 per week or $208.00.

Use the recommended grade of motor oil. Using the manufacturer’s recommended oil grade can provide a 1-2% fuel economy benefit. Savings: $.40 per day or $20.80

Remove roof or bike racks and roof top carriers when not in use. They create extra drag and can reduce fuel efficiency by 6%. Savings: $2.40 per week or 124.80

Now how many of us only spend $40.00 per week? If you are commuting you may spend that in a day. But, at $40.00 per week you can save $457.60 per year! Now, if you spend $20.00 per day those savings would be $1144.00 per year!

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