VIDEO: Increase Your MPG

Yesterday, we went searching for the truth in the common myths of fuel efficiency.  In this morning’s Traffic Talk, we talked to the experts to find out the best ways to increase your gas mileage so you make less trips to the pump.

Gregg Laskoski from AAA Auto Club South recommends 8 ways to improve your MPG(miles per gallon):

1. Maintain your engine.
Gregg adds, “Maintaining your vehicle is really the key… make sure you have a clean air filter, a clean oil filter, and check your spark plugs.”

2. Check your tire pressure.
For every pound of pressure your tires are under-inflated, you are losing 2% of your fuel economy.

3. Declutter!
Even an extra 100 pounds increases you fuel consumption by up to 2%… so get rid of the golf clubs, beach chairs and coolers to save.

4. Avoid harsh stops and starts typical of city driving.
Aside from the wear and tear these harsh movements place on your vehicle, they also waste gas.  Ease into a stoplight or intersection and gradually accelerate when you need to increase your speed to save fuel.

5. Use cruise control.
The even distribution of fuel and speed will improve your fuel economy.  However, remember cruise control is not recommended in rainy or severe weather.

6. Don’t speed!
Speeding, while dangerous, is also expensive.  It can reduce your MPG by 33% at highway speeds.  Gregg notes, “It makes a lot more sense to drive the speed limit and cut down your speed where you can and it will definitely help conserve gasoline.:

7. Roll down the windows.
Your air conditioner is a huge gas guzzler.  Gregg recommends, “Many people instinctively put the air conditioner on when they get in the car, especially here in Florida, but try to conserve when you can.  Most mornings you really don’t need it.”

8. Consolidate.
Schedule all of your errands in a particular region or for a particular day so you make the most of your time, trips, and gas mileage.

Finally, experts say gas prices can change any day of the week, but if you can fill up as early as possible before a holiday weekend, you may be able to save.

Any way you cut it, $4.00 a gallon hurts, so cut back where you can.  Try riding your bike or walking to the local grocery store or pharmacy.  You’ll get a little cardio and still have a few extra pennies in your pocket at the end of the day.

Have a great Memorial Day weekend!