While gas prices are beginning to drop, they are still near historic highs. Proper vehicle maintenance and adopting better driving habits can allow you to improve your vehicle’s miles per gallon (MPG), saving you money by allowing you to make fewer trips to the gas station.

Tip #1: Stop Idling the Engine

Many modern automobiles have a feature where the engine automatically turns off when the vehicle comes to a stop. Idling for an extended period of time usually requires more fuel than it takes to restart the car. If you get into the habit of turning off your engine when the opportunity arises, like when you’re waiting in front of a friend or family member’s house to pick them up, it could help you go further on a single tank.

Tip #2: Take Care of the Tires

Driving around with underinflated tires will decrease your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Conversely, overinflating the tires reduces their traction and overall performance. Variables like your vehicle’s make and model and the type of tires you have determine how much air they need.  

You can usually find the manufacturers air pressure recommendations inside your car door or in your owner’s manual. You can also look online if you are using specialty tires, or you have specific questions about optimal tire air pressure.

Tip #3: Clean Out Your Car

Smaller, lighter vehicles use less fuel, but you do not necessarily need a tiny car to save money by reducing weight. The key is making your vehicle—whether a large truck, a mid-size SUV or a smaller car—as light as possible. If you are driving around with a huge bike rack that you hardly ever use or a trunk full of junk, it may be worth removing unnecessary cargo to improve fuel efficiency.  

Tip #4: Drive Slow and Steady

It is no surprise that driving at high speeds uses more gas. Maintaining a consistent pace instead of constantly speeding up and slamming on the brakes can improve fuel efficiency. It is more economical to reach a gradual stop instead of rapid braking.

Aggressive braking on a regular basis will also wear down your brake pads at an accelerated pace and may even cause damage to your brake drums. In addition to saving money on fuel, you’ll also save money on future repair costs.

Tip #5: Plan Your Trips

Thoughtfully coordinating your trips is a terrific way to save your gas and time. If you travel across town to visit a friend, you could eliminate an extra trip to the grocery store the next day by making a quick stop on your way home. Some drivers save on gas by setting aside a specific day or time when traffic is light for errands, like on a weekend morning.

Tip #6: Research Your Options

One of the most effective ways to improve your MPG is to invest in a fuel-efficient vehicle. Upgrading your vehicle could yield substantial long-term savings. At Direct Car Buying, powered by Easterns Automotive, we carry a diverse inventory of hybrid and electric vehicles for sale in Virginia and Maryland.

Estimates suggest drivers can get 20 to 35 percent better mileage by switching from a traditional gasoline vehicle to a hybrid. Another recent study suggests electric vehicle owners will spend nearly $14,500 less to power their vehicle over the estimated 15-year lifespan of the EV than owners of gasoline cars, trucks and SUVs.  

Find a Fuel-Efficient Vehicle in Washington D.C. or Baltimore

Are you looking to save on gas? If so, Direct Car Buying is here to help. Browse our extensive inventory of vehicles for a fuel-efficient car, hybrid or electric vehicle. Contact us today with any questions.