1. A warm engine is more effective, so do your errands by driving to the farthest destination first. That will get the engine block heated up and you can work your way home while saving a few gallons.
2. On local roads, stay cool by opening the windows and turn off the air-conditioning. At highway speeds, driving with the windows down creates drag. So at 40 mph or faster, roll up the windows and put on the AC.
3. Notice to hoarders: You don't need to carry around a case of oil, a bag of sand, or tools? Empty the trunk and you'll have less weight, which means better mileage.
4. At the pump, avoid gas that's rated E15. The E is for ethanol, which has about 30 percent less energy than gasoline and kills mpg.
5. Avoid traffic pinch points when you can. Driving at speed is more fuel efficient than creeping along in low gear.
6. While you're at the gas station, inflate your tires properly and check them for uneven wear. And stay away from the wider performance tires. They increase road friction and lower your miles per gallon. Instead, use eco-focused tires that reduce rolling resistance.
7. Get a tune-up. A smooth-running engine is more efficient.
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