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We’re all gas usage conscious today!  There are a few important small steps we can take, that can really make a difference in our cost for fuel.  These tips were collected from the “hypermiler” Wayne Gerdes.  He says it will help us save 20% annually on our gasoline costs.  My thinking is anything that helps, helps!!

Form these new habits for fuel efficiency!  Here are some tips on getting the best mileage from your car:

• Take it EASY on the brakes:  Braking is inefficient because it kills your car’s momentum.  I wonder if we could quote Wayne Gerdes as we explain to the cop (that was willing to use his brakes to stop and write us that ticket) how inefficient using our brakes is…

Maybe not.  However, the alternative of “not stopping” could kill you or others, so it goes without saying not to go to the extreme with this.  What we’re talking about is the rushing up behind someone, and then slamming on the brakes; that kind of aggressive start-and-stop driving can increase fuel consumption by 37 percent. Instead, coast to a stop, take althernative routes to avoid stop-and-go-traffic, and time y our driviing to roll through those timed green lights. 

Yeah, I hear ya.  Not always possible, so I’m not so hot on this tip, but I thought I’d pass it on, since it is from the “experts” (“ex” as in ”has been” and “spurt” as in “drip under pressure”).

• Don’t speed:  For every 5 MPH you drive over 60, you lose about 7% fuel efficiency largely because of wind resistance.  To further minimize wind resistance, roll up the windows and remove your roof rack if you’re not using it.
• Inflate your tires:  Remember the flack Obama got with this one?  It works, though!  Keep your tires inflated to the maximum recommended pounds per square inch.  For every two PSI your tires are below that recommendation, you increase your fuel consumption nearly a percentage point. 
• Never idle:  Idling uses gas and gets you nowhere.  Anytime you stop for an extended period of time, for trains, stoplights, gridlocked traffic, turn off your motor.

Well, again, I’m just an average dummy, but I don’t recommend turning off the motor at traffic lights.  What if the car stalls or doesn’t start?  And, in big cities or dark streets, that’s not safe.

I don’t think saving a tiny drop of gas is worth that risk, especially if you hit a lot of lights going to and from work or errands.  But, if you’re in gridlocked traffic, with long waits, turning off the motor may work. 

If you just use one or two of these tips, you can save bucks.  Common sense prevails…happy and safe driving! 

Bonus tip:  Keep a safe distance from the car ahead of you and for gosh sakes, let them turn left of right without honking and tailgating!  That could be me behind you!  Road hog, beware!