How To Increase Gas Mileage

If you like to save money, now you can.

By following these good-sense driving and car maintenance tips, you will save gas, help preserve our environment, plus put money back in your pocket.

Save Money By:

• Replacing air filters. A clogged air filter causes your engine to work harder and your vehicle to become less fuel efficient. Replacing a dirty air filter can increase your mileage by 10%, or 15cents/gallon.
• Don't skimp on maintenance. Be serious about auto care. Your car's performance depends on it. Always follow the manufacturer-recommended maintenance. Your car's designed to run a certain way. If you neglect it, it won't be as efficient.
• Change the oil regularly and use the proper oil. Proper oil viscosity (5w30 over 10w30) can be a 1-2% increase in mileage, or 4-11cents/gallon.
• Avoid idling. Idling gets 0mpg on your vehicle. Turn the engine off if you have to sit more than a minute.
• Watch the speed limit. Driving over 60mph decreases fuel economy. Use your cruise control on long stretches of road. This helps maintain a steady speed and avoids unnecessary acceleration.
• Fill up with lower octane fuel. Buy the lowest octane appropriate for your car, unless your vehicle requires premium. Pricey premium won't boost your economy.
• Don't "top off" when filling your tank. Additional gas will slop and seep off. Don't waste $$ on the gas you won't use. When the nozzle clicks off, stop pumping.
• Make sure the gas cap is tight. Gas will evaporate from your car's tank if it has an escape. A loose, missing, or damaged cap can cause you to lose up to 30 gals per year.
• Keep your tires at the correct pressure. Underinflated tires can reduce fuel mileage and tire life by as much as 15%. Underinflated tires create more resistance and make your engine work harder. Proper tire inflation can increase mileage up to 3.3%, that's 3cents/lb. which can save up to 11cents/gallon.
• Keep your engine in tune. A poorly running engine can reduce your mileage by 4%. A misfiring spark plug can reduce your car's fuel efficiency by 30%.
• Eliminate as much drag as possible. Make sure your wheels are in proper alignment, roof racks or bicycle racks removed when not being used, etc.

Need more advice on how to save money with increased gas mileage?  Contact Gary's Quality Automotive today at (308) 381-2295.  As a AAA Approved auto repair shop, Grand Island's leading complete auto repair center proudly serves vehicle owners in Grand Island, NE, Wood River, NE and Doniphan, NE.