How to Save Gasoline

By Stephen Bucaro

When I was a teenager, gasoline was only 24 cents a gallon. Of course, my friends and I had to dig deep into our pockets to gather up 24 pennies to buy a gallon of gas. I thought it was outrageous when the price of gasoline was approaching 2 dollars a gallon. Now the price of gas is approaching 4 dollars a gallon.

Some people are just ignoring the cost of gasoline and driving as they always have. These people are going to have to cut their spending in some area. In other words, to keep driving wastefully, they'll need to reduce their standard of living. Assuming that you desire to maintain your standard of living as much as possible, I've provided these ten techniques you can use to save gas.

Monitor Tire Pressure

One thing that will severely reduce your cars gas mileage is a low tire. To learn how much air pressure a tire should have, look on the side of the tire, you should see something like Max Pressure 44 psi. This indicates that the tire should be inflated to a pressure of 44 pounds per square inch.

Pick up an air pressure gauge at Walmart's. Or, if you don't know how to use it, pick one up at your local auto parts store where it may cost a bit more but the counter person will be glad to show you how to use it.

Check your tire pressure monthly or sooner and, if you don't have one, while you're at Walmart's or the auto parts store pick up a tire pump.

Replace Engine Air Filter

A dirty air filter will reduce your cars gas mileage because it restricts air intake. Have your auto mechanic or a car-smart friend show you where the air filter is located and how to replace it. You should check the air filter every six months or sooner, and keep a new replacement filter on hand.

Keep the Junk Out

Don't carry anything unnecessary in the trunk or in the back seat of your car. No matter how small or light an object is, it requires a certain amount of energy to move a certain amount of weight a certain distance. If you keep unnecessary objects in your car, you are paying to move those objects everywhere you go.

Remove Unused Seats

If you have a six passenger minivan with removable seats, and if you rarely carry passengers, remove those seats and store them until you need them. It's also possible to remove the back seat from any vehicle. Remember, it requires a certain amount of energy to move a certain amount of weight a certain distance. You are paying to move those unused seats everywhere you go.