As gas prices rise, driving efficiently can mean big savings
Proper vehicle maintenance can help save gas
Proper vehicle maintenance can help save gas
Proper vehicle maintenance can help save gas
Gas prices are continuing to rise, but while it's getting tougher to save money at the pump, there are ways to be more fuel-efficient.
The average price of a gallon of regular unleaded gas hit $4.25 for a gallon, according to AAA's survey Wednesday.
Auto experts said that having an efficient vehicle and being an efficient driver can help.
Kathrine Mehos is self-employed as an independent manufacturers representative in New Hampshire, which takes her on the road all over New England.
"I'm trying not to get too overwhelmed because maybe next week I'm probably going to miss the $4.20 that I've been paying this week. So, who knows," Mehos said.
The increase in gas could have secondary effects, according to Massood Samii, a former senior economist for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Counties.
"For example, the cost of transportation of goods, and that would push the price of goods up. Cost in terms of electricity because electricity uses energy, oil and gas," Samii said.
Fuel efficiency tips
"No. 1, keep your tires inflated properly," said Darren Furlong, of New Hampshire's Port City Nissan. "No. 2, don't carry so much weight in your vehicle. No. 3, stay on proper maintenance."
That means keeping up on oil changes and changing oil filters and spark plugs.
"Try to avoid those abrupt starts and stops," said Dan Goodman, of AAA Northern New England. "Drive a little slower."
According to fueleconomy.gov, drivers can save from 36 cents to $1.44 per gallon just by driving less aggressively.
"We know that if you drive a little slower on the highway, 5 to 10 miles an hour, you're going to increase your fuel efficiency by 10-15%," Goodman said.
Experts said that every 5 mph over 50 mph is like paying an extra 25 cents per gallon.
Weight also adds up, especially in a small car. Every 100 pounds of unnecessary belongings costs 4 cents per gallon.
As for idling, avoiding it helps the environment and save 1-3 cents per gallon, even more if the air conditioning is being used.
"Those things will help increase your fuel efficiency when you get on the road," Goodman said.
AAA also suggests avoiding things that make your car less aerodynamic, such as loaded roof racks. Drivers are also urged to plan and combine trips and errands.