Now more than ever, owning a car means you are probably looking to cut down on your fuel expenditure. You don't have to find an oil reserve in your backyard to make your car an efficient method of transportation instead of the financial liability many are fearing. There are several simple steps you can take to improve your cars gas mileage and save at the pump.
Buy a lower octane gasoline. Unless your car specifically needs premium gasoline, it is a waste of money and will not improve your car's economy or performance. If you're not sure, check your owner's manual. Also, don't bother topping off your gas. Any excess just sloshes right out, and you've paid for nothing. And make sure you put the gas cap on good and tight! Otherwise, usable vapors can leak out, even becoming a danger.
Another thing that can lead to fuel evaporation is overheating by exposure to sunlight, so park in the shade any time possible. Underinflated tires can also drag down your gas mileage, so be sure to check your tire pressure often. In the winter especially, your tires can lose a pound of pressure each month. Not only can properly maintained tires save you money on gasoline by as much as 15%, they will also help keep you and your family safe.
And as much as everyone hates putting their car in the garage, it is most essential to keep your maintenance up to date on your automobile. Not only is it unsafe to drive for a year with your "check engine" light on, but the money you could save by simply getting your engine repaired could have paid for itself twice. That's right, a faulty engine uses a lot more gas than is necessary to run a "healthy" car.