Saving Money on Gas

For some drivers, their cars have become money pits.  Higher fuel prices have thrown a wrench into many motorists' driving experiences.  No longer can we count on cheap fuel – it’s fair to say that high gasoline prices are here to stay.  In order to save money on gas, you can follow these tips:

Shop around for gas.  Don’t be loyal to one brand.  Buy where you can get the best deal.  There isn’t a significant difference between any of the regular gas brands.  All additives must meet performance standards so the only real difference is the audacity of the superior performance claims.

Buy gas on a Wednesday.  Gas prices are statistically the cheapest on Wednesdays.  It’s worth it to keep an eye on your local station on Wednesday and fill up then.

Always pump your own gas.  Self service gas is typically 5%-10% cheaper than when you opt for full service. You should always fill the tank full.  If you need to fill up, fill up all the way.  The more money you try to save by adding $10 today and the $20 later in the week will be waster since each time you will have to travel to the station.  But, don’t “top off the tank”.  Some of the gas may end up overflowing when it expands in the sun or even if you park uphill.  This is bad for the environment and wastes your hard earned money. 

Apply for a credit card that offers gas savings with you use the card for purchases.  This works in much the same way that some credit card companies allow you to earn frequent flyer miles when you use their card for purchases.

Limit your driving whenever you can.  Walk, bike, ride the bus or join a carpool.   Also, try and combine your trips.  If you can do several short trips in one longer trip, you will save fuel and time.  Make lists to avoid having go back and forth.  Also, call ahead to avoid wasted trips.  You can also create an errand routine.  Plan to stop at the grocery store, or the mall when you are already going in that area for something else. 

To save even more on gas, think about how you are driving.  You will want to avoid idling.  Idling your car sucks up gas – even more so if you have the air conditioning on.  Try to drive at a consistent speed.  By avoiding hard breaking and quickly speeding up, you will save a lot of your gas!  Use your cruise control!

Use your GPS to help you find the fastest and shortest route to your destination.  Avoiding stops and getting lost will also save your gas.

Take a look at your speed – most people really need to slow down a bit.  Any speed above 40mph will cost you a lot in gas.  Drive under 60-65 mph if you can.  Also, take off slowly from a full stop to maximize your gas.  This one adjustment will have a dramatic effect on your gas mileage. 

If you follow several of these hints, you will see notice you will be saving substantially on your gasoline bill over time!