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Reduce the Cost of Driving - 10 Top Tips By Charles Cridland
Most of us cannot avoid driving, either to work or on weekend
errands. And, with the cost of gasoline on the rise owning a car is
getting more and more expensive. To help reduce your driving costs
try the following tips:
1) Invest in a Hybrid Car Most car companies now offer hybrid vehicles. You can cut your gas consumption practically in half by purchasing a car that runs on both gas and electricity. 2) Shop Around for Gas Gas stations like all other companies must compete for your business. Therefore there will be gas available at cheaper prices so be sure shop around. May cities will have on-line websites that show where the gas is cheapest in your area. 3) Be Consistent in Your Driving Try to avoid accelerating and breaking unnecessarily, as this practice will consume a lot of gas. Do your best to maintain a consistent speed that is appropriate for the area you are driving in. 4) High Gear Always drive in the highest gear possible as this will save up to 45% in fuel use.
5) Car Maintenance
Keep your car well tuned and your tires correctly pressurized. Make sure all your car filters are clean and your car gets regular oil changes. 6) Compare Car Insurance Check a few different car insurance companies. Be sure you are getting the lowest price for the best coverage. Many times you can get a good deal by having your home and car insurance with the same company. 7) Find Cheaper Parking If you have to pay for parking look around your parking complex for cheaper areas to park. Even if you have to walk an extra block or two it is worth the money you will save. 8) Use Pedal Power If you have to make a short trip, try and go by foot or bicycle. This will save gas and wear and tear on your car. 9) Carpool Check around your office to see if there are any employees that live nearby so you can carpool. Or on weekends check with your neighbours to see if they are running the same errands in the same establishments as you and all go together. 10) Close Car Windows Keeping your windows open in the car can create drag. While air conditioning uses fuel it is better to keep the windows closed and use the air conditioning. Please note that using the air conditioner will also use up gas so try not to blast it on high power. Instead use the air conditioner in your car sparingly. By following these few tips you will be sure to save on gasoline. As a matter of fact, these tips can save you 1-2 tanks worth of gas a month.
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