- Keep your tires inflated at their proper levels. Under-inflated tires create rolling resistance which means your engine uses more fuel to maintain speed.
- Lighten the load. Heavier vehicles use more fuel, so clean out unnecessary weight in the passenger compartment or trunk before you hit the road.
- Use the air conditioner sparingly. The air conditioner puts an extra load on the engine forcing the vehicles to use more fuel.
- Keep your windows closed as much as possible. Wide-open windows, especially at highway speeds, increase aerodynamic drag and the result is up to a 10% decrease in fuel economy.
- Avoid idling for long periods of time. If you anticipate being stopped for more than one minute, shut off the car. Contrary to popular belief, restarting the car uses less fuel than letting it idle.
- Stay within posted speed limits. The faster you drive, the more fuel you use. For example, driving at 65 miles per hour (mph) rather than 55 mph increases fuel consumption by as much as 20 percent.
- Use cruise control. Using cruise control on highway trips can help you maintain a constant speed and, in most cases, reduces your fuel consumption.
- Keep your engine well-tuned. A fouled spark plug or a plugged/restricted fuel injector can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 20 percent.
- Check your owner's manual to find out what fuel octane rating your car's engine needs.
- Have the fuel filter changed every 30,000 miles (or per manufacturer specifications) to prevent rust, dirt, and other impurities from entering the fuel system.
- Replace your air filter and PCV valve more often than recommended if you drive in dusty conditions. If you are experiencing engine problems such as hard stops, rough idling, stalling, diminished power, etc, make sure to get them corrected at a quality automotive shop.
