Released May 27, 2009
URBANA, Ill. — Gas prices are going up again, but there are ways consumers can cut spending at the gas pump, said a University of Illinois Extension consumer and family economics educator.
"Here are 10 tips on how to get more for your gas dollar," said Patricia Hildebrand.
1. Buy gas during the morning or evening hours when it's cool, or you'll be buying gas when it's expanded, thus getting less.
2. Keep extra weight out of the trunk. The car loses about one mile per gallon in fuel economy for every extra 250 pounds your engine hauls.
3. Follow the recommended maintenance schedule to keep your vehicle fuel efficient.
4. Keep tires properly inflated, balanced, and aligned to save fuel and unnecessary wear on tires.
5. Don't top off the gas tank. Gas can slosh or seep out if it's too full. Make sure the cap is tight.
6. Reduce heavy acceleration and heavy brake use to improve fuel economy.
7. Drive 55 miles per hour rather than 65 miles per hour. It will improve the fuel economy by two miles per gallon.
8. Use air conditioning carefully. It can lower your fuel economy by 10 to 20 percent.
9. Remove snow tires in good weather. Deep tread and big tires use more fuel.
10. Make sure the price on the pump matches what's on the sign and that the gas pump starts at the $0 mark.
"For more tips on saving money in these tough economic times, including preventing foreclosure, which bills to pay first, how to talk to creditors, handling stress, and more, visit U of I Extension's "Getting Through Tough Financial Times" website at http://www.ToughTimes.illinois.edu," said Hildebrand.
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http://www.aces.uiuc.edu/news/stories/news4799.html
Source: Patricia Hildebrand, (217) 347-5126, phildebr@illinois.edu
Writer: Phyllis Picklesimer, (217) 244-2827, p-pickle@uiuc.edu
