Low Fuel Efficiency Could Mean Too Much Junk in Your Trunk

7
November
2012
Of course a tune up, oil change, or full inspection and maintenance could increase your car’s fuel efficiency.  But, if yourcar trunk has fishing equipment, camping gear, unpacked luggage, or whatever else leftover from summer vacation, you might be guilty of having “too much junk in your trunk.”
 
Empty that trunk
Too much junk in your trunk is one way to use up your car’s fuel. Preparing your trunk for the coming winter weather begins with emptying it. Weight can slow down your vehicle and affect fuel efficiency. Unless some of that camping gear can be used as part of your emergency roadside kit, it’s time to put it in storage.
 
Low tire pressure, excessive stopping and starting, and unnecessary speeding also contribute to wasted fuel.So, while you wait for inspection time, here are four additional ways to significantly improve your car’s fuel efficiency:
 
Properly inflate those tires
Tires that are low in pressure can make your vehicle work that much harder.  Adding the right amount of air in your tires will help your car run more evenly and save you gas.
 
Limit your stops and starts
For good reason, there are more stop signs and traffic lights in high traffic areas. But, trying to get from point A to point B during morning or evening rush could mean a lot of idling. For every stop, wait, then start, your car uses more fuel. So try taking the road less traveled as much as possible.  
 
Take it slow, Mo
I’m pretty sure you’ve been told to slow it down at least one time or another. Not only is highway speeding more dangerous these days as we experience unprecedented weather and unpredictable drivers talking and texting; but, speeding uses up a lot more gas. Driving under the maximum speed gives you more control and stability in your driving.
 
Keep tank at least half full
Don’t waste your time waiting for gas prices to drop. It’s always going to fluctuate. Fill up your tank. With fuel mixtures like ethanol becoming more popular, your car may be sometimes left with more alcohol than gas in the tank. Keeping your tank at least half full will ensure a good mix of gas and other needed additives.