The Basics

Ok lets get the basics out of the way before we start exploring any gadgets or off the wall ideas for improving gas mileage. In my opinion there are really seven important aspects that have the biggest affect on gas mileage. I know there are more than just these seven and many sites list many more than this but from my experience these are the seven that have the most impact in all situations I have seen.

1.)Keep your engine tuned up! Replace your air filter and spark plugs when reccommended by the manufacturer.

2.)Don't use your air conditioner unless you really need it. The A/C system creates extra drag on the engine that will greatly reduce fuel economy.

3.)Make sure your tires are properly inflated and maintained. Under inflated tires are by far the most common problem on American highways today. This problem alone is responsible for wasting millions of gallons of fuel a day!

4.)Keep your oil changes as recommended by your manufacturer. Also look into the use of synthetic oils, these have been found to increase fuel mileage up to %10 in some cases.

5.)Keep the weight in your vehicle to a minimum. If you carry more cargo than you need it will greatly benefit you to remove it from your vehicle.

6.)Use your cruise control whenever possible!!

7.)Remove accessories, such as luggage rack, ski rack, bike rack, etc. These items increase the drag on your vehicle as well as increase the weight. It is very common for this step alone to produce gains of up to 3-4 mpg!

By following this seven simple steps you can increase your gas mileage by up to %25 in some cases. These steps will give you the biggest increase in gas mileage and best of all most of them can be accomplished with little or no money and very little time as well!