6 ways to save gas in a slow economy

Rising gas prices have been a concern for a long time. Now, with a faltering economy and people losing jobs left and right, it is more important than ever to make the most out of every drop of fuel you buy. Since most of us won’t be able to buy a more efficient car in the current economy., here are some tips for saving gas in a recession economy.

1. Drive Better : One of the easiest ways to save gas is simply a matter of changing how you drive. When driving for efficiency, the key is smoothness. Don’t jab at the gas pedal or the brake. Give your car gas gradually and you will get the most out of every drop of fuel. Start braking gradually, well before stoplights.
2. Control Your Speed : Most guides on the internet will tell you to drive the speed limit to save fuel. While you should do this because it’s the law, it’s not always the best for fuel economy. I drive a car with an automatic transmission that shifts into fourth gear at about 68 KPH. If I drive just slightly above the speed limit, my efficiency will go up. Try to learn tricks like this with your car.
3. Keep Your Car Running Well. A healthy engine is an efficient engine. Regular oil changes and frequently replaced air filters will noticeably improve how well your engine uses fuel.
4. Turn off the A/C or Roll Up the Windows : A certain popular Myth busting show did a test on this. Below freeway speeds, it is more efficient to have your windows open as the aerodynamic drag produced is less than the parasitic drain of an air conditioner. Above certain speeds, the A/C is more efficient. Aerodynamics become more important the faster you go. The most efficient way to drive would be with the A/C off AND the windows rolled up (with you melting into a puddle of sweat inside).
5. Never Drive Angry : This is also just a good, all around tip for driving. In general, if you are angry, you are not paying attention to the road, you take more risks and are less likely to notice that minivan full of kids in your blindspot. In terms of efficiency, it goes back to #1 on this list. If you are angry, you tend to drive harder, speed excessively, Do yourself and other drivers a favour and calm down before you drive.
6. The Most Fuel Saving Devices Are Scams : If you find a product online that claims to be “For Better Fuel Mileage and Increased Horsepower!”, take it with a dumptruck-sized grain of salt. There are a few products that actually do increase power and efficiency. For example, a Cold-Air Intake could improves HP and MPG by about 10 percent each. Good Cold-Air Intakes start at $90. Anything promising more gains for less money is probably a scam.