Even if you have a high-quality vehicle and get car maintenance regularly, your gas mileage may not be at its peak capacity. The fuel economy of your car isn’t just a set number; it can change depending on the condition of your vehicle and how you drive it. If you consider the following do’s and don’ts, you can increase your mileage and spend less on gas.

Do:

Maintain proper tire pressure.

This simple form of car maintenance doesn’t just protect your tires; it can also boost your mileage. Check your owner’s manual to see how much air your tires should have and top off every two weeks.

When the pressure decreases, the resistance between your tires and the ground increases. As resistance increases, the tires and suspension components of your car must work harder and use more fuel. Save your gas mileage by keeping your tires at the right pressure.

Refuel earlier in the day.

The containers of gasoline at fueling stations warm up throughout the day. Since gases expand when heated, refueling later in the day might mean you aren’t getting as much gas as you think you are. You should refuel in the morning while the tanks are still cool to ensure you’re getting dense, efficient gasoline.

Don’t:

Accelerate too quickly.

If you’re in a hurry, accelerating quickly might save you a few seconds, but it will hurt your mileage. Sudden bursts of movement can make your car’s engine work harder and consume more gas than necessary. Gradually increasing to your desired speed is both safer and more fuel-efficient.

Carry too much weight.

You should check the owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website to see how much weight your vehicle can carry. The more weight the engine has to pull, the more fuel it will guzzle.

If possible, don’t store overly heavy items in your trunk. The occasional moving trip is fine, but don’t keep furniture or boxes in your car for too long. Limit your regular load to a spare tire, tools to change it, and an emergency kit. 

When you need car maintenance, visit Kelly’s Auto Repair Inc. in Lincoln, NE. For over 25 years, they’ve offered everything from brake checkups to engine repair. Whether you need some air in your tires or a computerized diagnostic of your vehicle, they can help. Visit them online or call (402) 467-4602.