Fuel Economy Series Part 4

by Tim Joseph

Nempimania: An obsession with getting the best fuel economy possible.

If you're really feeling it at the pump and have enjoyed out series then quite possibly you have Nempimania. I know I do. I've talked a lot about trading your car for one that's more fuel efficient or how to track your fuel economy. I've also told you how much money you can save with Nitrogen and how to calculate that savings. Now I'm going to give you some tips on how to maximize your fuel usage and save money. Imagine if everyone in America reduced their fuel usage by 20%. Most likely it would cause the investors to sell their shares in crude oil and cause the price to fall. I ended up only spending $10 on gas this week compared to $16 last week and $20 the week before. I have cut my gas costs in half. Just by using these techniques.

Observe The Speed Limit - Each 5mph you drive over 60 costs you $0.20 per gallon for gas.
Remove Excess Weight - This affects smaller vehicles more than large vehicles but the general rule of thumb is every extra 100 pounds in your vehicle will cost you 2%. At $4/gallon it costs you $0.08 per gallon.
Avoid Excessive Idling - You get 0 mpg when you idle.
Use Cruise Control - It helps you maintain a constant speed and will save you gas.
Use Overdrive Gears - If you have an automatic transmission, make sure you use the over drive gear.
Keep your Engine Tuned - Engines that are out of tune cost you 4% at the pump
Check and Replace Air Filters - Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your gas mileage by 10%.
Keep Tires Properly Inflated - 1 psi drop costs you 0.4% and it can add up quickly.
Keep Your Oil Changed - Not only will it make you engine run longer but it'll save you at the pump.

Personally, I have been shifting at 2,000 RPM's. Also, I've been shifting into neutral down hills and when coming to a stop. This will bring your RPM's down a lot, let your engine run easier and save you a lot of money.

In Part 5 I will highlight Dick Scott's most fuel efficient vehicles at each of our dealerships. That will close out our Fuel Economy series but whenever we hear of ways that will save you money at the pump, we'll pass them along.

To get into a more fuel efficient vehicle, please contact:
Dodge - 800-571-6906
Motormall - 800-486-2415
Kia - 800-730-9872
Nissan - 800-504-8536