Here are some ways to save money on gas:
Choose synthetic motor oil instead. Besides making your car a little less hungry at the gas station, this will also reduce engine friction.
The manufacturer's recommended grade of oil is what you should use. When it comes to manufacturer specs, they are based on what is best for your vehicle.
When you buy gas, make sure it has the recommended octane rating. Premium can actually be detrimental to many engines.
You should fill up on gas during the coolest times of day. Liquids expand in the heat so you get more gas in each gallon.
After you fill up, make sure that the gas cap is tight. Gas can easily evaporate. If the cap is improperly seated, then you can lose an appreciable amount.
Inflate your tires to the recommendation of the manufacturer and check them before your holiday. Underinflated tires create drag and increase gas consumption. Driving on bald tires is what you should never do. They increase fuel consumption and they are also unsafe.
Avoid leaving your engine idling for long periods of time. This also includes pre-warming. It should only take you one minute. You can use normal speeds after a couple of minutes but you can start off slowly.
You should also avoid continually starting and stopping your engine. With each start, the same amount of gas is burned as one minute of idle time. Instead, drive in a way that will entail minimal use of the brakes.
When you're on the highway, drive the speed limit. Speeding devours gas. Your cruise control should be activated whenever possible.
In cities, the stop lights are usually set to synchronize with the posted speed limit. You are more likely to hit a long series of green lights if you drive the speed limit. Gas consumption and idle time are increased when stopping at red lights.
You should only pack what you need. If you are carrying more weight, then you will be using more gas.
Try to decrease wind resistance. A car caked with mud, snow, or ice will cause drag and burn more gas than a sleek, clean vehicle.
Unless it is necessary, don't use the air conditioner.
Ensuring that you vehicle goes in for regular maintenance and tune-ups is one way of pampering your vehicle. Dramatic fuel savings can be the cause of slight adjustments.
Do your research before you leave to find out where the cheapest gas stations are. Use your common sense such as knowing that driving too far out of your way will gobble up more gas than you can save.
While you vacation, you can trade your gas guzzler (if you own one) with a relative or neighbor for a smaller vehicle. Making sure that insurance policies on both vehicles are in order is what you need to do first.
Try using your feet. When you get to your destination, walk whenever you can. Walking is how you really get to know an area.