The last situation anyone wants when they are miles from a gas station is to run out of fuel. Many people have pressed their luck and found themselves coasting on fumes, which usually results in a call for roadside assistance. Below are a few tips to try when the tank is nearly empty.

How to Conserve Gas When You’re Low

1. Coast & Cruise

Breaking and accelerating use more gas. When fuel is low, coasting will conserve what’s left. For highway driving, use your cruise control so that speeds stay consistent to help you save gas until you get to a rest stop or fuel station.

2. Use AC Wisely

If you are driving slowly, turn off the air conditioner to save gas; at high speeds, close the windows and use your cooling system. Shut windows at speeds over 55 mph to reduce drag, or aerodynamic wind resistance, which saves fuel as you drive.

3. Head Downhill

While it is not always practical, going downhill uses less gas. Avoid routes to a gas station that entail a lot of uphill driving, which burns more fuel to make the climb. When coasting downhill, do not use neutral; this actually wastes gas to keep the engine going.

4. Turn Off Unnecessary Accessories

Turn off the radio and do not charge your cellphone when gas is low. Even though these accessories don’t use a tremendous amount of power, they can make a difference in whether you make it to the gas station or you need to call for roadside assistance.

5. Go Right

Right turns use less gas than left because you usually don’t have to idle waiting for a clear road when heading to the right. Idling wastes gas and should be avoided whenever you are concerned about your fuel level.

If you find yourself low on fuel in Columbia, Dodge, Dane, Sauk, Marquette, Green Lake, Adams, Juneau, and surrounding counties in Wisconsin, Blystone Towing & Radiator will help. Their roadside assistance includes 24-hour towing when you are stranded, whether from running out of gas or from a mechanical breakdown. They also have a full-service auto repair shop with ASE-certified technicians ready to get you back on the road in no time. For service, call (608) 742-4228. Stop by their website to learn more.