Save Money By Improving Fuel Economy

By Author: MS
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(MS) -- Sticker shock at the gas pump has reached epidemic proportions. Prices have crept up for months, but this past summer they reached record highs in the U.S. -- topping the $4 mark -- leaving many consumers scratching their heads and wondering just what they can do to save money.

The most obvious solution is to keep the car parked in the garage and look to alternative means of transportation, such as buses, trains, or carpooling. But how many people can feasibly do that, especially those living in rural areas? The next best idea is to either use less fuel or get more bang out of your fuel buck. This is one method of saving money that the majority of consumers can get behind, say the experts at AMSOIL. That's why the company has put together these suggestions for improving fuel economy.

* Purchase a fuel-efficient vehicle: Now is the time to trade in that gas-guzzler for something that simply sips fuel instead. Automotive manufacturers have realized the demand for fuel-efficient cars, and many are unveiling new models or retooling existing ones to offer better fuel efficiency. Cars like the Toyota Prius and ...
... the Honda Civic have scored high marks, but there are makes across the board that offer good savings on gas due to improved mileage if you're into brand loyalty.

* Maintain your vehicle: If a new car isn't in the cards at this point, you can improve the performance of your current ride and help to make it more efficient. Switch to a synthetic motor oil. AMSOIL synthetic motor oil and drivetrain fluids will reduce friction, improve horsepower and fuel economy by keeping moving parts operating efficiently and cleanly. Also, don't forget to change air filters, as dirty air filters can reduce gas mileage significantly. Regular tune-ups, including changing spark plugs and wires will also make a difference.

* Optimize travel: Create a driving schedule and consolidate trips to save money on gas. Also consider mapping out an alternative commute route, one that involves less stop-and-go traffic, aggressive driving, or even traveling through road conditions that may cause your vehicle to work harder. All of these factors can add up to savings on fuel.

* Streamline your car: Items such as bike racks, roof racks, ornate detailing, or even spoilers may contribute to wind drag and cost you a little bit more at the pump.

* Make smart gas purchases: Look for deals at the pump when they're to be had. For example, gas is often cheaper on Wednesdays, and may be more expensive prior to big driving holidays. It may be cost-effective to purchase gas from warehouse center gas stations, provided the store is close enough to your home. Paying with cash could save you a few bucks too. Many stations tack on a premium to purchases made with credit cards to offset the cost the credit card companies charge the station for accepting the cards.

* Choose gas-saving products wisely: On the heels of the gas crisis there are a number of outfits touting that their gas-saving device is the best and works wonders. But research has indicated that these products are more hype than help, so much so that the U.S. government has been cracking down on bogus gas-saving claims. Stick with a product that has been proven to improve fuel economy and one that will offer a money-back guarantee, such as AMSOIL's Pi Performance Improver. It increases fuel economy, reduces emissions and restores vehicle power and performance by dissolving and removing combustion chamber, intake valve and fuel injector deposits. In fact, field testing shows AMSOIL P.i. provides an average fuel economy improvement of 2.3 percent and up to 5.7 percent.

For more ideas on improving fuel economy, including the products that help you do so, visit www.amsoil.com.

CAPTION: Taking steps like purchasing a car that gets good miles to the gallon and gassing up when stations run specials could be ways to save cash.

I started writing articles since 2001 and have been enjoyed doing it. I was graduated from the University of Cardiff with a bachelor degree in education.