How To Save Money On Gas: 13 Smart Tips for Your Wallet
Discover how these fuel-saving strategies can contribute to your overall financial well-being.
While there might be a future where Americans no longer rely on gasoline to fuel their vehicles, that reality is not here today. Until that transformation occurs, the cost of operating our cars will continue to be significantly influenced by pump prices.
Back in mid-June 2022, gas prices reached a peak, hitting a record of $5.01 per gallon. Fortunately, that figure has decreased, but refueling the gas tank still comes at a cost.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Strategic Choices Matter – From fuel selection to payment methods, every decision can impact your gas expenses.
- Vehicle Maintenance Pays Off – Well-maintained vehicles operate more efficiently, translating to fuel savings.
- Financial Wellness – Cutting down on gas expenses is not just about saving money at the pump; it’s a step towards financial stability and debt relief.
Gas Saving Tips
Given the ongoing need for gasoline, it makes sense to find ways to minimize spending on it.
With strategic choices and mindful practices, you can save money on gas without compromising your lifestyle or racking up too much debt on credit cards.
The following 13 tips can help achieve this goal.
#1 – Buy the Right Fuel
Understanding your vehicle’s fuel requirements is the first step in optimizing efficiency.
Using the recommended fuel type ensures proper combustion, maximizing your engine’s performance and fuel economy.
Check your vehicle’s manual to determine the appropriate fuel for optimal efficiency.
#2 – Pay with Cash
Cash is king—even at the gas station!
Some gas stations still offer cash discounts, providing an immediate saving when you pay with cash. It’s their way of avoiding card processing fees.
Consider withdrawing cash for your fuel purchases to take advantage of potential discounts and keep more money in your pocket.
The gap between the cash and credit prices typically falls within the range of 5-15 cents per gallon. While this may seem minimal, this difference in price can add up over time.
Opting to go inside and pay with cash also helps you steer clear of skimmers that thieves might install on gas pump credit card readers.
#3 – Choose the Right Rewards Program or Credit Card
Many gas stations, including Exxon, BP, Shell, Speedway, and Murphy USA offer cash back or points for gas purchases to encourage brand loyalty.
Explore and choose a program that aligns with your preferences and spending habits. These rewards can add up, providing valuable savings on your overall expenses.
However, be careful. If the stores with rewards are not conveniently located in your city, don’t go out of your usual route just to take advantage of these rewards as you may end up using more fuel.
#4 – Use a Gas Comparison App to Find the Best Price
How often have you refueled your gas tank, only to notice another gas station just a few blocks away offering considerably lower fuel prices? Fuel prices may fluctuate significantly within a short distance or from one day to the next.
The first day of the week is typically the cheapest day to fill up your tank.
Harness the power of technology by using gas comparison apps such as Gas Buddy or GasGuru to find the best prices in your area.
These apps analyze real-time local gas prices, helping you locate the most cost-effective options and save money on each fill-up.
#5 – Check Your Tire Pressure Routinely
Contrary to popular misconception, overinflating your tires doesn’t save you money on gas. Proper tire pressure is crucial for fuel efficiency.
Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, leading to decreased fuel efficiency. Research indicates that for every mile traveled, under-inflated tires lead to an additional consumption of one cent more fuel compared to when the tires are appropriately inflated.
Routinely check and maintain the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle. The suggested tire pressure can be found on the inside of the car door panel. It’s typically in the 30 to 35 PSI range.
Likewise, if your wheels are misaligned, your car may use more gas and experience increased tire wear.
Since late 2007, all vehicles sold in the United States have been mandated to include tire pressure sensors, which alert users when the air pressure falls below the manufacturer’s recommended level.
#6 – Drive with a Light Foot
Aggressive driving habits, such as rapid acceleration and abrupt braking, can significantly impact fuel efficiency.
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, simply adopting poor driving habits like aggressive speeding, harsh braking, and rapid acceleration can reduce your gas mileage by approximately 15-30 percent at highway speeds and 10-40 percent in stop-and-go traffic.
Instead of revving your engine at stop lights and racing off the line, adopt a smoother driving style by accelerating and decelerating gradually. This not only conserves fuel but also enhances the overall longevity of your vehicle.
#7 – Avoid Excessive Idling
Idling consumes fuel without providing any significant mileage.
Turn off your engine if you anticipate a prolonged stop (such as waiting at a school pickup zone, drive-through window, or ATM).
Modern vehicles consume less fuel restarting than they do idling for an extended period.
#8 – Use Cruise Control
Maintaining a consistent speed when navigating even terrain with a steady speed limit (such as when driving on the highway) with cruise control can improve fuel efficiency.
It prevents unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, helping you achieve a more constant and economical fuel consumption rate.
What’s more, you can avoid leg cramps!
#9 – Ensure Your Engine Is in Good Shape
Regular engine maintenance, including air filter, spark plugs, belt changes and timely tune-ups is essential for optimal fuel efficiency.
Ensuring your vehicle is well-maintained is crucial, as an improperly cared-for car can consume up to 25 percent more fuel.
A well-maintained engine operates more smoothly and consumes less fuel.
#10 – Minimize AC Use
Running your AC full-time can contribute to increased fuel consumption.
Use your AC sparingly and consider using the vehicle’s ventilation system to circulate air when possible. This small adjustment can lead to noticeable fuel savings.
#11 – Avoid Carrying Unnecessary Luggage
Excess weight in your vehicle can decrease fuel efficiency.
Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area to reduce the overall weight of your vehicle and enhance gas mileage.
According to a 2020 study conducted by Consumer Reports, using a roof rack with a carrier caused a 19 percent reduction in fuel economy for sedans and a 13 percent decrease for SUVs.
You don’t require a bike rack in winter or a ski rack in summer; they simply add extra weight and cause your car to consume more gas.
#12 – Consider Your Next Car’s EPA Rating
When contemplating a new vehicle purchase, consider the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) rating for fuel efficiency.
A vehicle boasting a favorable EPA rating will achieve 30 miles per gallon or higher.
Love SUVs? We do, too! However, choosing an SUV with a higher MPG (miles per gallon) rating can result in long-term savings on fuel costs.
#13 – Consider A Hybrid or Electric Car
When purchasing a new car, seriously contemplate opting for a hybrid or electric vehicle.
Although the initial cost may be higher, the long-term savings throughout ownership make it a worthwhile investment.
Opting for a fuel-efficient vehicle doesn’t only benefit your gas expenses. One of the significant financial perks of selecting an energy-efficient vehicle is the potential eligibility for tax discounts, providing additional savings.
Conclusion About How to Save Money on Gas
As we navigate our daily routines, the cost of fuel often becomes a significant expense.
Implementing the above fuel-saving strategies is not just about minimizing your expenses at the pump; it’s a holistic approach to financial well-being. By making mindful choices and adopting fuel-efficient practices, you can contribute to your overall financial stability and debt relief.
At Americor, we understand the importance of managing your finances wisely.
As America’s trusted source for debt relief solutions, we aim to empower you with financial knowledge that can lead to informed decisions, whether it’s about savings, investments, or managing debt.
If your debt has become unmanageable and you have difficulty making your debt payments each month, then you should consider a free consultation call with one of our certified Debt Consultants, who can provide personalized advice tailored to your specific needs.
By taking proactive steps today, you can put an end to your financial stress and work towards a brighter financial future.
Remember, there is always hope for debt relief, and our team of experienced professionals are ready to guide you on your journey to regaining control of your finances.
For more information on Americor’s debt relief services, contact us today to see how we can help you eliminate your debts, and get on the fast-track to becoming completely debt-free!
