Tips For Improving Gas Mileage
LOS ANGELES (CBS) — With gas prices flirting dangerously with $4 per gallon for regular, a few easy changes might help Los Angeles drivers improve their fuel economy.
The U.S. Department of Energy has some tips for saving gas in times of high prices.
Drive efficiently: It may be hard, but try to refrain from stop-and-go driving, even in LA gridlock. Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds. When driving the occasional clear freeway, observe the speed limit – gas mileage goes down fast at speeds above 60 mph. Clean out the car – an extra 100 pounds in your car could reduce your MPG by up to 2 percent.
Maintain your car: Getting a tuneup could can improve gas mileage by an average of 4 percent. Keeping the tires properly inflated can also improve gas mileage, by up to 3.3 percent – the proper tire pressure for your vehicle is usually found on the inside driver's side door.
Plan your drive: Combine your errands to save you time and money. If working off-hours is an option, it could pay off in gas mileage. Take advantage of carpools and ride-share programs to cut down your fuel costs. When traveling, reconsider your roof rack and don't forget to remove it when you're not traveling.
Buy a new car: This is the least of easy changes, but something to think about if you are in the market for a new car anyway. See fueleconomy.gov for gas mileage estimates and information on cars manufactured from 1984 through 2011.
