If rising gas prices have you down, then you’re not alone. Minnesota drivers are paying higher prices at the pump, while they search for answers on how to make their car more fuel efficient. Let’s face it. We can’t control the price we pay for gas, but we do have some control over our vehicle’s level of fuel efficiency. If you’ve been searching for ways to make each fill up last longer while getting your car further, then we’ve got some quick tips that can help.

Efficient tire pressure

Did you know that properly inflated tires can not only extend the life of your tires, but also increase your car’s fuel efficiency? On the flip side, improperly inflated tires can decrease your fuel efficiency by 3%. While it doesn’t sound like much, this can add up and cost you at the pump. Increasing your fuel efficiency can be as easy as checking your tire pressure every month to ensure those tires are properly inflated.

Inspect your front end alignment

It’s pothole season. If you’ve run into one lately or hit a nasty bump in the road, that can mess with your front end alignment. If your front end alignment is off, that can decrease your gas mileage by 10%. Some signs that your alignment may be off is pulling to one side while driving, a little extra bounce when you hit that bump, or even shaking when driving at high speeds. If you notice any of these signs, ask your mechanic to check it out so your car can maximize its fuel efficiency.

Fill up with the right octane to make it efficient

It may be tempting to start filling up with higher octane fuel – thinking that the higher the octane, the better the efficiency. But the octane that makes your car the most fuel efficient is the one set by your manufacturer.  For example, if your owner’s manual states that your car requires 87 octane fuel, filling your car with 89 or 91 octane won’t help it become more efficient. This will simply cost you more without any added benefit. Stick to the octane your car needs and you’ll be good to go.

Quicker fill ups

Did you know that keeping your gas tank at least ¼ full is better for fuel efficiency?  When your car gets below ¼ full, your fuel pump has to work harder which makes your car less efficient. If you want to save money at the pump, plan on refilling at ¼ of a tank.

Efficient car and Cleaning out your trunk

The more you’re hauling around in your trunk, the harder your car has to work to get you where you need to go. If you store a variety of items in your trunk, it may be time to clean it out and lighten your everyday driving load. For every 100lbs you’re driving around within your trunk, it increases your fuel consumption by 1-2%. Consider cleaning out your trunk before you hit the road this spring.

Stop the idling

You may be tempted to let your car idle while waiting for your friend, checking your messages, or even waiting for your next appointment. Idling, however, consumes ½ gallon of gas per hour. Instead of leaving your car on, consider rolling down your windows, turning it off, and enjoying the beautiful spring weather.

Schedule your spring maintenance check

Here’s a fun fact for you. Your car can burn up to 30% more gas when proper maintenance is not performed. If filling up with gas is killing your budget, then it’s time to give your car some TLC. Your spring maintenance check will include ensuring that your tires are properly inflated, checking your frontend alignment, changing out your air filter, and additional items which decrease your car’s efficiency.

These quick tips can help you save more at the pump while getting the most out of every pitstop.  If you’re ready to get your spring maintenance appointment on the books, our team is ready to help you take your fuel efficiency to the next level as you get on the roads this spring.