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Gas
Saving Tips from the Pros
 (ARA) - They're up, they're down, they're
back up. Gas prices got you down? If telecommuting and pubic
transportation are not viable options for you, here's some down-to-earth
advice from the pros at the non-profit National Institute for
Automotive Service Excellence (ASE).
It is important
to keep your vehicle properly maintained and change your driving
habits so as to maximize your mileage, according to ASE officials.
Here's a plan of action from the group that tests and certifies
automotive technicians:
Monitor your
tires. Under-inflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel
by forcing the engine to work harder. Let the tires cool down
before checking the air pressure. Out-of-line wheels, as evidenced
by uneven tread wear, should be aligned by a professional.
Consolidate
your daily trips and errands. Some trips may be unnecessary.
Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go
conditions.
Avoid excessive
engine idling. Shut off your vehicle while waiting for friends
and family.
Observe speed
limits. Speeding decreases your miles per gallon.
Drive gently.
Sudden accelerations guzzle gas. Anticipate traffic patterns
and adjust your speed gradually. Use cruise control. (You'll
help your brakes and suspension system last longer, too.)
Get rid of
excess weight by removing unnecessary items from the vehicle.
Store only essentials in the trunk. Less weight means better
mileage. After family vacations, make sure you remove all unnecessary
items, including that roof-top cargo carrier.
Use windows
and air conditioning wisely. Your mileage should improve if you
keep the windows closed at highway speeds, since air drag is
reduced. This is true even with the air conditioning on -- assuming
that the system is in good working order. If possible, try to
avoid using your air conditioner in heavy, stop-and-go traffic
such as traffic jams or holiday weekend back-ups.
Be a sensible
patriot. Everyone loves the flag. But show your patriotism by
affixing a decal rather than hoisting a large flapping U.S. flag,
which increases air resistance.
Keep your engine
operating at its "peak efficiency." A well-maintained
engine will help you maximize the gas mileage for your specific
make and model. A misfiring spark plug can greatly reduce gas
mileage. Follow the service schedules listed in your owner's
manual. Replace filters and fluids as recommended; have engine
performance problems (rough idling, poor acceleration, etc.)
corrected at a repair facility. Given today's high-tech engines,
it's wise to have this type of work done by auto technicians
who are ASE certified in engine performance.
These conservation
tips will not only save gasoline, they'll help extend the life
of your vehicle and help you conserve precious natural resources.
Patriotism, indeed.
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Author:
The National
Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) was founded
in 1972 as a non-profit, independent organization dedicated to
improving the quality of automotive service and repair through
the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians.
ASE-certified technicians wear blue and white ASE shoulder insignia
and carry credentials listing their exact area(s) of certification.
Their employers often display the blue and white ASE sign.
Visit www.asecert.org for more information.
Courtesy of
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