Gas prices are stampeding toward $5 per gallon at an alarming pace, leaving many drivers regretting that they didn't give fuel economy more consideration when choosing their everyday ride. Well, we say forget the regrets. There are some simple ways to coax better mileage out of that gas guzzler parked in the driveway. We're not talking about transforming a 25-mpg machine into one that gets 35 mpg. Instead, these simple driving techniques and maintenance musts can squeeze a few miles out of every tank you burn. Over time, the savings can add up to a sizable sum.
Lose the Lead Foot
If mashing the gas pedal to the floorboard every time you accelerate your car is standard operating procedure, you have a lead foot. The loud "thump" of the pedal hitting the floor should have alerted you to the problem. And it's a costly one — simply picture money falling from your wallet every time your right foot makes an abrupt, quick or sudden movement. That doesn't mean don't drive. Instead, switching to a mellow driving style can put that money back in your pocket. Throttle manipulation is a key factor in stretching your car's fuel reserves: You should use light, smooth throttle inputs, not deep throttle blips and full-throttle antics.
Resist Riding the Brake
Keep your eyes down the road. When you see traffic congestion, do not jump on the brake pedal right away. Take your foot off the accelerator and coast until you need to use the brake. If you can avoid impeding the vehicle's momentum, you will save money in the long run; it takes more fuel — and, thus, money — to get a vehicle up to speed than to maintain that speed. When you do brake, ease on the pedal and save as much forward motion as possible. The Energy Department reports that unruly braking, rapid acceleration and speeding can lower your gas mileage by up to 33 percent on the highway and 5 percent in town, so balance between the pedals is essential.
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Control Your Speed
This one is all about aerodynamics. Wind resistance increases greatly between 55 and 75 mph, so keep your cruising speed reasonable and you will stretch your fuel dollars. In fact, according to the Energy Department, every 5 mph increase in speed over 60 mph is equal to paying an additional 30 cents per gallon. Tip: On long road trips, engage your cruise control.
