10 Steps to Better Gas Mileage

1. Warming up your vehicle in the driveway wastes gas. Drive slowly for the first few blocks instead to bring your engine to optimal driving temperature.
2. Smooth, gradual acceleration increases mileage; rapid starts waste gas. Try to maintain a steady rate of speed and take advantage of timed traffic lights.
3. Watch your speed. For every mile per hour over 50, mileage decreases roughly one percent. When traveling at a steady speed, most vehicles get their best mileage between 35 and 45 mph.
4. Proper tire inflation and wheel alignment decrease road resistance and increase mileage. Check tire pressure monthly and rotate tires using your vehicles specific maintenance schedule.
5. A well-maintained vehicle will run properly and use fuel more efficiently.
6. Use your air conditioning wisely. With the air on, your engine uses more fuel.
7. Drive less by planning ahead. Try to do all your errands in one trip and plan the most efficient route.
8. Don't vent your anger behind the wheel. Aggressive acceleration wastes gas and can be dangerous as well.
9. When you see a red light or stop sign ahead, take your foot off the accelerator and let your vehicle coast in gear. This lets momentum get you to the intersection.
10. Shift properly. If you have a manual transmission, shifting into high gear as soon as possible without straining the engine reduces drag and uses less fuel.