How to Save Gas: 11 Tips That Will Help You

Have you ever considered how to save on gas? With the rising costs of fuel, using your car has become increasingly expensive.

In the United States, drivers are paying an average of $3.81 per gallon, according to the Energy Information Administration.

This poses a significant expense for many, particularly considering the long distances often required for daily commutes from home to work and back.

According to the Automobile Association, the annual cost amounts to $2,336. However, there are ways to reduce fuel consumption.

Here are 11 tips that will help you avoid draining your budget at the gas station. Interested? Keep reading below.

1. Purchase the right fuel

You might be filling up your vehicle with Premium gas, which is more costly compared to regular.

This is because it boasts a higher octane rating and is cleaner, thus offering better engine protection. But have you checked if it’s suitable for your vehicle?

This type of fuel is typically recommended for high-compression cars with turbocharged engines, as it allows for better ignition and performance.

Refer to your manual to confirm if it’s the manufacturer-recommended fuel. If it’s not specified, then regular unleaded gas will suffice to avoid unnecessary additional expenses.

2. Download a price comparison App

With gas price comparison apps, you can easily locate stations selling fuel at lower prices using your mobile device.

Many of these apps are free and enable you to search based on your location, making it convenient to find nearby or frequented stations.

They also provide details about available fuel types and accepted payment methods, such as cash, credit cards, or vouchers.

These apps are invaluable for comparing prices, staying updated on rates, and saving money each month.

There are numerous options available online. Download one that suits your preferences and take advantage of its benefits.

3. HOW TO SAVE GAS: Pay with cash

Seeking more advice on how to save on gas? Opt to pay in cash to avoid transaction fees.

Some gas stations offer discounted prices for cash payments. It’s also a quicker and simpler payment method.

Alternatively, use a debit card to avoid additional charges, although not all service providers may accept it.

Before refueling, inquire about available discounts to ensure a hassle-free transaction.

Be cautious when using debit cards, as they are more susceptible to potential scams.

4. Utilize rewards programs or credit cards

In the United States, there is a plethora of loyalty programs rewarding customers for their patronage. Each purchase earns you rewards.

Depending on the program, you can enjoy discounts, exclusive offers, and points redeemable for cash or miles.

Leverage the rewards offered by your credit card to save on gasoline, especially those applicable at gas stations.

Take note of any limits imposed, as some rewards may expire within three months or annually.

Calculate your expenses to assess the benefits, and familiarize yourself with the redemption value and any membership fees.

5. Ensure the gas cap is securely closed

Another method to conserve fuel is by securely fastening the gas tank cap.

Failure to do so may result in fuel evaporation and reduced efficiency. Avoid leaving the cap loose.

In most cases, a loose cap triggers the engine light on the dashboard, indicating a potential issue.

While some modern vehicles feature capless filling systems, it’s not foolproof, and a defective seal could lead to fuel vapor leakage and trigger the warning light.

6. Monitor Your Driving Habits

Your driving style significantly influences fuel consumption. Learn how to save gasoline while driving.

Avoid excessive speeds, not only for safety reasons but also to conserve fuel. Higher speeds lead to quicker fuel depletion.

Driving at speeds exceeding 60 or 70 mph on highways forces the engine to work harder, resulting in reduced efficiency.

Adhere to speed limits and maintain a steady pace without abrupt acceleration or braking.

Aggressive throttle manipulation to boost power consumption leads to increased gasoline usage.

7. Turn off the engine when idle

How often do you leave your vehicle’s engine running while stationary?

Many people do so unnecessarily, such as when waiting to pick up children from school or while parked while someone runs a quick errand.

Idling is unnecessary except in traffic jams and results in fuel wastage.

Depending on the engine type, idling can consume up to half a gallon of fuel per hour.

If stationary for an extended period, turn off the engine and restart when ready to resume driving to save money.

8. Avoid roof racks and cargo carriers

Additional weight in your vehicle increases fuel consumption. When traveling, refrain from using roof racks and cargo carriers.

According to a Consumer Reports study, these accessories can decrease fuel efficiency by 13 to 19% in certain vehicle models.

Excess weight alters vehicle aerodynamics and increases wind resistance, forcing the vehicle to work harder and consume more fuel.

Use roof racks and cargo carriers only when necessary, ensuring the load is securely fastened to prevent issues and save fuel.

9. Regularly change engine oil

Don’t overlook regular oil changes as part of your fuel-saving strategy.

Clean engine oil reduces friction-related fuel losses and keeps the engine operating smoothly.

Refer to your vehicle manual for oil change intervals, which depend on the manufacturer’s recommendations and the vehicle’s age.

Use high-quality oil to maintain optimal engine performance and longevity.

10. Maintain proper tire inflation

Driving with underinflated tires is unsafe and increases fuel consumption.

For every pound per square inch of air pressure deficiency, fuel efficiency decreases by approximately 0.2%.

Regularly check and maintain the correct tire pressure as indicated in the maintenance manual or on the vehicle’s inner door panel.

If uncertain, service stations can assist in checking and adjusting tire pressure.

Proper tire inflation maximizes fuel efficiency and optimizes fuel usage.

11. Monitor miles per gallon (MPG)

Understanding your vehicle’s fuel consumption on a trip helps estimate future fuel needs for similar journeys.

Although fuel consumption varies, paying attention to miles per gallon (MPG) provides insight into your vehicle’s performance.

Most modern vehicles automatically calculate MPG, highlighting changes that could indicate maintenance needs or performance issues.

Monitoring MPG helps identify potential problems and estimate monthly refueling costs.

In summary, there are many factors influencing fuel consumption, but implementing short-term changes can yield savings.

These 11 tips offer practical strategies for saving gasoline, setting you on the path to more efficient fuel usage.