Gas Saving Tips

As gas prices continue to rise ($3.15 at last look in Las Vegas), here are some important tips that will save you some money and help make you a fuel-conscious driver:

• Air Filters - have them regularly checked and replaced,  Replacing clogged filters can increase gas mileage up to 10%.
• Cruise Control - Gas mileage declines dramatically when you drive at speeds faster than 60 mph. Cruise control helps you avoid a heavy foot on the gas pedal.
• Hard Acceleration - Avoid if at all possible...this will improve in-town gas mileage by up to 5%.
• Check Your Tires - Make sure they are aligned and properly inflated. Increasing your gas mileage by up to 3%!
• De-Junk Your Car - 'stuff' adds to the weight of your vehicle thus eating into the fuel.
• Keep Car Serviced - When is the last time you had your car serviced?  Keeping your engine tuned will improve your fuel economy.

Other ways to save money include:

• Combine Errands - several short trips, each taken from a cold start, can use twice as much fuel as one trip covering the same distance when the engine is warm.
• Carpool - Many cities and counties make it easier by providing commuter lanes (Las Vegas Monorail system is providing FREE rides to NV residents this weekend, take advantage of it)
• Bus, bike, or walk - Consider leaving your car at home and taking public transportation, riding a bike or walking to your destination (can you see me trying to talk my buyers into viewing houses using one of these ways?  In 100+ heat!)

A couple other things I've found out about cars over the last few years:

I found my recent vehicle was going through brakes every year (almost to the month!).   I decided that unless there is a good reason for it I will not set my emergency brake every time I park.  The only time I set it is when I am on a hill.  My brakes were due to go out in February, it's now almost June (taking a deep breath and saying a prayer they don't go out now).  I'm thankful for that savings! 

Also, try and remember to turn off your A/C when turning the engine off.  It saves on the belts somehow.