Top Tips For Reducing Your Mileage Costs

The cost of gas and insurance is the largest money sink associated with owning and driving a car. So, in this article, we’ll look at quick and simple tips to bring down your costs at the pump.

Read More: How To Save Money On Your Car Insurance

Ditch The Roof Rack

It might come as a surprise, but the eggheads over at Berkeley University found that having a roof rack attached to your car could increase your cost at the pump by up to 25%. 

This is because of the added weight and wind resistance. But, if you have a roof rack, your engine has to work harder, which means you use more fuel.

The good news is that plenty of roof racks are built to be easily detachable, so if you need one, find one that won’t take you half a day to remove.

Close Your Windows 

Much like the roof rack, having your windows open really effects the amount of wind resistance that your car has to push through as you pick up speed, Just having your front windows open can increase your fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Given the efficiency of modern air conditioning units, it’s normally more cost-effective to close your windows and turn up your air-con.

Get A Service

There are a myriad of reasons that you should get your car regularly serviced. It means you’re far less likely to break down, if nothing else. 

However, it can also save you when it comes to paying for your gas, as a regularly serviced car has, on average, 4% better gas mileage than one that isn’t.

Use Cruise Control

Most modern cars have one huge computer and can control the engine through micro-inputs far more smoothly than you can with your feet. 

If you’re driving down a long stretch of road, try putting your car into cruise control or, if your car has one, Eco-mode, and let the car drive itself as efficiently as possible.

Obviously, you’ll need to stay aware and control your vehicle, even during cruise control. Don’t be tempted to fall asleep or head into the back of the RV to make a sandwich.

Don’t Carry Around Excess Weight

Cleaning out your car, and especially your trunk, can be a messy and boring process. But not getting rid of all that junk you’ve been carrying could cost you in the long run. 

Every 100 pounds of additional weight could cost you 1%-2% on your fuel economy, so it’s probably best to set aside a few hours over the weekend to make sure you’re not spending money to carry around things you don’t need.