8 Steps to Reduce Your Gasoline Bill

Posted by john in February 23rd, 2008

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Have you noticed the price of gasoline this week? I paid $2.69 per gallon for regular unleaded on Valentines Day. Yesterday, I forked out an amazing $3.14. That’s nearly a 16.5% increase in less than a week!

This got me thinking about how to conserve fuel, so that I don’t have to take out a second mortgage to finance this necessity! Obviously, the first step is to drive less or at least drive smarter. Combine trips. Postpone less important outings until you have several reasons to venture out. I know, this stinks. But, by combining these steps with the following list of ideas, you could save yourself a bundle.

Check and maintain proper tire pressure.
Possible savings: Up to 3%
Drive the speed limit.
Possible savings: 7 - 23%
Remove unnecessary weight.
Possible savings: 1 – 2% /100 lbs
Keep engine tuned to manufacturer specs.
Possible savings: 4%
Use recommended motor oil grade.
Possible savings: 1 - 2%
Check and replace air filter.
Possible savings: Up to 10%
Avoid letting vehicle idle unnecessarily.
Set cruise control, whenever possible.

As you can see, taking some or all of these steps can really add up. I hope this helps you save some money. More information can be found at fueleconomy.gov. You can download a copy of the 2008 Fuel Economy Guide here. Information about possible savings from research conducted by: Energy and Environmental Analysis, Inc., Washington, DC. Possible savings based on a gasoline price of 3.10 per gallon.