The Ultimate Fuel Savings Checklist

THE ULTIMATE FUEL SAVINGS CHECKLIST

Most drivers focus only on the price at the pump. However, the way you maintain your vehicle and how you drive can actually save you more money over a year than finding a cheap station. Use this 10-point checklist to audit your driving habits today.

I. Vehicle Maintenance (The Basics)

• Check Tire Pressure Weekly: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance. According to the Department of Energy, properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3%.
• Replace Clogged Air Filters: Engines need to “breathe” to burn fuel efficiently. Consequently, a dirty filter forces the engine to work harder and consume more gas.
• Use the Recommended Oil Grade: Using the wrong motor oil can lower your fuel economy by 1–2%. Always check your owner’s manual for the specific weight (e.g., 5W-30).

II. Driving Habits (The Strategy)

• Avoid Excessive Idling: If you are stopped for more than 30 seconds (outside of traffic), turn off the engine. Idling can burn a quarter to a half-gallon of fuel per hour.
• Accelerate Gently: Jackrabbit starts are a major fuel drain. Instead, imagine there is an egg under your gas pedal that you don’t want to break.
• Use Cruise Control on Highways: Maintaining a steady speed helps prevent the unnecessary fuel consumption caused by constant acceleration and braking.

III. Planning & Logistics

• Batch Your Errands: Several short trips starting from a cold engine can use twice as much fuel as one multipurpose trip when the engine is warm.
• Lighten the Load: An extra 100 pounds in your trunk can reduce your MPG by about 1%. Remove unnecessary heavy items like sports equipment or tools.
• Check Your Gas Cap: A loose or damaged gas cap allows fuel to evaporate into the atmosphere. Surprisingly, this small part can save you several gallons a year if it’s working correctly.