Updated 10/30/2011 04:22 PM
Five tips for improved fuel efficiency
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NOTE: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, vehicle manufacturers recommend optimum tire inflation pressure with labels permanently attached to the vehicle door edge, door post, glove box door or inside the trunk lid. Tire manufacturers list the "maximum permissible inflation pressure" on the tire sidewall. Ideally, you should check your tire pressure when the tires are cold and inflate to the pressure recommended by the manufacturer.
Do your part by maximizing your fuel efficiency no matter what you drive. Using less gas means fewer emissions and that’s better for your wallet and the planet. Here are my top five ways of getting the most out of every gallon:
First up, don’t drive aggressively. Speeding up and slamming on your brakes can reduce fuel mileage by as much as 33 percent.
Tip No. 2 - keep those tires properly inflated. When they’re at the right level, you can save up to 8 cents on every gallon.
Clean out your car. The weight of sports equipment or an unused stroller can add up. Every 100 pounds of extra weight will cost you about 2 percent in fuel costs.
Cruise control comes in at No. 4. It will help conserve gas on flat terrain. If you’re driving through hilly areas, it’s best to switch back to foot control.
And my fifth and final tip - don’t delay routine maintenance. When you do things like change your oil when necessary, your car won’t have to work as hard, which saves you gas and money.