How To Save Money On Gas

If a hybrid car that offers 60 miles to the gallon isn’t in your immediate future, I’ve got some tips to save at the gas pump.

Car Maintence
Your car uses more gas when it’s not working properly. Change your oil every 30,000 miles. Get regular tune ups for your car. This includes brake pads, oil filters, and tire pressure. Tired pressure is extremely important to check every week and could save your life in doing so. Also make sure to check your car’s body for any problems.

Oil
Oil is obviously very important but are you putting the right grade of oil in your car? Putting the right grade of oil in your car helps the gas mileage tremendously.

No Idling
Stop idling your car. Warming or cooling it up before you actually leave the driveway is another big gas guzzler. That also goes for the air conditioner. Unless you can’t stand the heat, roll down the windows.

The Tank
Stop topping off the tank. When you top off the tank, a little spills out. Yes, you’re saving pennies but it’s still money you’re wasting.

Gas
Buying the lowest octane gas you can for your make and model can reduce the cost of driving. Driving with premium gas if you don’t have to is only burning a hole in your wallet. It doesn’t do anything to boost your car’s anything. If your gas cap is loose, missing or broken, get it replaced. Millions of gallons of gas a lost each year because of loose or broken gas caps. There is no superior brand of gasoline. Going to the gas station because you think it’s better for your car is making you lose out on some savings.  Another great way to save is to check your driveway for any gas leaks.

Member’s Only
Have a shopping card to a local grocery store? Check the label. In cases like Kroger, for every $100.00 you spend in the store, you can receive a coupon for $.10 off per gallon. Speedway Gas Stations also offer this reward. How often do you use your Speedy Rewards card at the register? Every time you buy something, you’re getting bonus points. To cash your coupon out, you need to locate the Speedy Rewards kiosk.

Credit Cards
Some gas stations offer a discount when you pay by a preferred credit card.

Apps
There are plenty of applications for phones, mp3 players and even websites that will locate the cheapest gas for you in your given radius.

24 Hour Check
If you don’t know the store is open, call first. These two minutes could save you money.

Combine Trips
If you combine your trips, you can plan your direction by the most effective and efficient.

Biking
What’s a great way to save money and lose weight? Biking of course. If you live within 5 miles of your place of employment, biking can offer a lot more that weight loss and money saved. If offers real scenery, a chance to get out and experience the outdoors.

Driving
While driving, using a GPS system will help you in locating your destination. It will also save you money by not having to drive around a few times and looking for the place you need to go. Unless you use those bike racks on your car everyday, take it off. Removing the sun roof on hot days also reduces the drag on your car. Use your cruise control.

Starting Up
During the start up of your vehicle, turn all electronics off. Just like a computer, your car uses more gasoline starting up with extra gadgets plugged in. Once you turn on the ignition, start driving immediately. Avoiding as many stops as you possibly can while you drive can help you save money.