20 ways to beat big oil when filling up

Like everything else, the price of gasoline continues to go up and won’t likely be getting any cheaper as time passes. While travel costs have increased, you do have some influence over how much you need to spend by controlling how often you fill up.

Here are a few suggestions for saving money on gas:

1. Replace your motor oil with synthetic oil. It decreases friction in the engine and may make your automobile less hungry at the filling station. Some products on the market promise to improve fuel efficiency by 5% to 20%.

2. Use the oil grade suggested by the vehicle manufacturer. The specifications are determined by what is ideal for your particular car.

3. Purchase gas with the octane rating suggested. Many engines are adversely affected by premium. The minimum octane available (89) is sufficient for most modern cars.

4. Get fueled during the coldest hours of the day. Liquids expand in warmth, so you receive more gas per gallon when it’s cooler. Pumps are calibrated to measure gallons rather than weight.

5. After you’ve filled up, double-check that the gas cap is securely fastened. Gas evaporates quickly and a poorly installed cap might result in a significant loss.

6. Before going on vacation, check your tires and inflate them according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Tires that are underinflated cause drag and increase gas consumption. Keep a tire gauge in your glove compartment to check PSI throughout the year.

7. Driving on bald tires is never a good idea. They are not only dangerous, but they also increase gas consumption.

8. Avoid idling your engine for lengthy periods of time. This includes warming the engine up, which takes only a minute. Begin gently, then increase to standard speeds after a few minutes.

9. Don’t start and stop your engine too much. Each start consumes nearly as much gas as one minute of idling.

10. On highways, stick to the speed limit. Speeding wastes valuable gasoline. When feasible, use cruise control, and when it isn’t, remember the “egg” trick: drive as though there is a raw egg between the gas pedal and the floorboards.

11. In many cities, stop lights are frequently adjusted to match the official speed limit. If you follow the recommended speed, you’ll be more likely to see a long string of green lights ahead. Stopping at red lights extends your idle time and increases your gas usage. This is why most hybrid vehicles have an “auto stop” function, which cuts the engine at stops to save fuel.

12. Drive in such a proactive way that you don’t use the brakes as often (coasting, etc).

13. Don’t load the car with more weight than necessary. The more you have packed on the ride, the more gas you will burn.

14. Reduce the amount of wind resistance. An automobile with mud, snow, or ice caked on the exterior will cause drag and use more fuel than one that is clean and aerodynamic.

15. Use the air conditioner only when absolutely required. Air conditioners in vehicles kill gas mileage.

16. Have your car tuned and maintained on a regular basis. Small changes can result in significant fuel savings. Whenever the oil is changed, have the maintenance staff do a fuel injector cleaning. Today’s gasoline is often 10% ethanol, which can clog your injectors over time.

17. There are websites and apps that display local gas station pricing. Before you go, find out where the most affordable stations are. Use common sense: going too far out of your way will cost you more money in fuel than it would save you.

18. Pay with cash. Many stations offer a discount when paying with cash or a debit card, so plan accordingly. Credit cards have higher processing fees and gas stations pass that expense on to you with a higher price. Don’t forget to take advantage of any fuel rewards you might be racking up at your grocery store.

19. If you own a gas hog, consider swapping it for a smaller car with a neighbor or family member when vacationing. Check that both vehicles’ insurance policies are up to date.

20. Make use of your feet and other travel options. When you get to your location, walk as much as possible. Walking is the best way to get to know a place and is good for you. It’s also fun to explore alternative transportation when in a new place.

Remember, gas is money. Save cash and the environment – and have more money for your adventures!