10 Ways You Can Maximize Your Fuel Efficiency This Summer
As the temperatures rise and road trips call for you, ensuring your vehicle runs efficiently becomes more important than ever. Here are some money saving tips to help you get the most out of every tank this summer.
- Keep Your Cool with Proper Tire Pressure
Maintaining optimal tire pressure not only ensures your safety but also improves fuel efficiency. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and use more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long drives. Read more about your tire pressure here.
- Shedding Extra Pounds
Summer is the perfect time for a vehicle spring cleaning. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk and interior to lighten the load. Every extra pound affects fuel efficiency, so decluttering can go a long way in saving on gas.
- Smooth Operator
Embrace a smoother driving style to conserve fuel. Avoid quick accelerations and sudden stops, as these behaviors waste energy. Opt for gradual speed changes and maintain a steady pace on highways to optimize fuel consumption.
- Stay Cool without Overworking the AC
Keep your cool inside the car without overworking the air conditioning. Park in shaded areas when possible or use a windshield sunshade to reduce heat buildup. At lower speeds, consider rolling down the windows instead of blasting the AC to save on fuel. Check out our blog post on maintaining your AC system here.
- Tune-Up Time
A well-maintained vehicle operates more efficiently. Schedule regular tune-ups, including air filter replacements and oil changes, as per manufacturer recommendations. A smoothly running engine consumes less fuel, benefiting both your wallet and the environment! Read more about the signs your engine could need the extra help here.
- Plan Smart Routes
Summer drives often mean exploring new destinations. Plan your routes to avoid heavy traffic and construction zones whenever possible. Smooth, uninterrupted driving leads to better fuel efficiency.
- Choose the Right Fuel
Check your vehicle’s owner manual for the recommended fuel type. Using higher-octane fuel than necessary doesn’t necessarily benefit your vehicle’s performance and can be an unnecessary expense. Stick to the manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal efficiency.
- Aerodynamics Matter
Reduce drag by keeping windows closed on highways and removing roof racks when not in use. Roof-mounted cargo boxes and bike racks can significantly impact aerodynamics, increasing fuel consumption.
- Smart Parking and Idling Etiquette
Avoid prolonged idling, especially in hot weather. Turn off your engine if you anticipate a wait longer than a few minutes. Additionally, when parking, try to choose spots that allow for easy departure without reversing when you can, minimizing the need to restart and consume extra fuel.
- Educate Efficiency
Share these tips with friends and family to promote fuel-efficient driving habits. Small changes in behavior can collectively make a big impact on fuel consumption and your wallet.
By implementing these fuel-saving strategies, you can enjoy more miles per tank and make less stops on your Summer road trips so you can make more memories! Whether you’re planning weekend getaways or just want to make your daily drive more budget-friendly, every bit of efficiency adds up.
Need a hand getting your vehicle summer-ready? From tire pressure checks to air filter replacements and oil changes, Quick Lane has you covered. Book your next visit today and drive into summer with confidence, no appointment needed, just stop by or give us a call!