Whether you drive a car, truck or SUV, you are likely trying to maximize your gas mileage.

You may think that there is nothing you can do to improve your vehicle’s miles per gallon, but the truth is that you play a big role in the mileage of your car. From changing your driving habits to keeping up on your vehicle’s maintenance, there are many things you can do to attain better gas mileage. By implementing one or more of these tips, you can achieve what everyone wants – fewer trips to the gas station!

Don't speed

Drive the speed limit using your cruise control. Studies show that as your speed increases to 65mph and 75mph, gas mileage drops dramatically.

No jackrabbit starts

It is fun to peel out first at a stoplight, but that fast start uses more gas than a steady ramp up. Take it easy on the accelerator.

Avoid hard braking

Stomping down on the brake is another way to waste gas. When driving in traffic, look ahead and coast when you see a red light.

Plan it out

Need to run to the grocery store today and the bank tomorrow? Combine your errands to avoid wasted trips.

Remove that rack

Bike racks and other roof-top carriers increase drag. If you aren’t using that bike rack, take it off – you’ll see the difference at the pump.

Roll 'em up

Having the windows down while driving down the highway creates wind resistance that causes your engine to use more gas.

Cut the AC in the city

Running your air conditioner in stop-and-go city traffic causes your engine to uses more gas. Roll your windows down to cool off.

Clear out the trunk

You can realize better fuel economy with a lighter load. Clear out unnecessary cargo from your vehicle.

Check tire pressure

Use a tire gauge to ensure that your tires are at the recommended level. Besides improving mileage, properly inflated tires wear evenly and will last longer.

Change the air filter

Once your air filter is clogged, your engine has to work harder. Keeping your engine’s air filter clean will help it use fuel more efficiently.

Get new spark plugs

If your spark plugs have more than 30,000 miles, changing them can help improve the performance of your engine and your gas mileage.

Checking your gas mileage

To see if your efforts are having a positive effect, keep track of your gas mileage over the course of several months. Start with a full tank of gas and set your trip odometer to zero. The next time you fill up, write down the number of gallons you put in and the trip odometer reading. Divide the miles traveled by how many gallons you put in the tank. This will give you the miles per gallon you achieved. Perform this calculation each time you fill up to get a good handle on your gas mileage and to see if any changes you make are helping improve your fuel economy.

The content contained in this article is for entertainment and informational purposes only and should not be used in lieu of seeking professional advice from a certified technician or mechanic. We encourage you to consult with a certified technician or mechanic if you have specific questions or concerns relating to any of the topics covered herein. Under no circumstances will we be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on any content.

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By the Numbers

Avoiding Pain at the Pump