Saving at the Pump

There isn't much we can do about high gas prices, but there are steps we can take to get the most out of our mileage and save a little at the pump.

The first idea is a no-brainer: rely less on your vehicle.  This is much easier said than done.  My office at Vantage CU is about an hour away...I obviously can't walk.  However, I can walk to my neighborhood grocery store (if I'm not getting too much).  If public transit is available, try it out a few times.  If a bus or train can get you to work, it could save you a lot of money weekly that you would be spending on gas.

For most of us, it's not an option to leave our car behind, so here are a few quick tips to help you save and keep your MPG (miles per gallon) up:

• Take care of your vehicle!
  • A properly maintained car can save you money.  This includes changing the air filter when needed, maintaining the recommended amount of air pressure in the tires, and keeping up with general car care like changing your oil.
• Don't take off from a stoplight like you're drag racing!  Stomping on the gas as soon as the light turns green wastes more gas than you can imagine.  Try not to be in a hurry whenever possible.
• Use your cruise control when you're driving on relatively flat stretches of road.  Using cruise control in hilly areas will waste gas and is bad on your transmission.
  • Safety Tip: NEVER use your cruise while it's raining!
• Turn your air-conditioner off when you don't need it.  If it's a nice day, roll down the windows, and enjoy the wind in your hair...and better MPG.
• Don't buy higher octane gas than is recommended for your car.  Higher octanes are more expensive and do not offer better mileage.
• Avoid products claiming to raise your MPG (gas pills, magnets, bolt-on parts).  THEY DON'T WORK!  Automotive professionals agree these products are laughable.
  • Source: My dad!  He's been an automotive instructor at a world class training center for over 15 years!

Okay, here's a big myth/argument.  "Experts" claim that if you fill up during cooler parts of the day, you will get more for your money.  The idea is that cooler gas is more dense.  Gas pumps charge you on the volume of fuel you pump, not the density; thus giving you more for your money.  However, gas is stored underground and it is unlikely that any change in temperature above ground would affect the gas you are pumping into your car.

When you have to go out, remember to group all your errands together in a single outing if possible.  The less trips you make, the more money you save.

Happy saving...

Rob Cartwright