Save on Fuel
The second post in the Cars for Moms series, this one talks about saving money while driving around to playdates, grocery stores, preschool and pretty much everywhere else. I don’t know about the rest of the world, but here in India, fuel costs are sky high. You know, it makes me sound ancient, but when I was in college{ which by the way, is not that long ago}, I could fill up a tank in the amount of money that it costs me to buy just a litre of gasoline today. Yes. So, while we can’t give up our cars altogether, we can be smart drivers and save fuel, and some money too.
Here are some fuel-saving tips for moms behind the wheel:
Save Fuel With a Steady Speed
Constantly changing gear and driving at high speeds is not only bad for the car and uncomfortable to your passengers but also, increases fuel consumption. Instead, drive at a steady speed and change gears at the right speed.
Look After Your Set of Wheels to Save Money on Fuel
Taking care of your car will not only help it last longer and stay in good condition but will also help you to cut costs on fuel consumption. How? Checking the tyre pressure and maintaining the right tyre pressure will ensure fuel consumption is low, since wind resistance and drag from under-inflated tyres can cause increased fuel consumption.
Also, ensure that the air filter, clutch pedal and engine are in the best condition possible. A clogged air filter or worn out clutch can drink up fuel faster than you can imagine.
Drive Right and Drive Frugal
Idling away at the traffic lights? Taking the car out to go to the store around the corner? Think again. Driving frugal means you try to save fuel wherever you can. So, if you are stopping at the traffic lights or waiting for someone to join you for more than a minute and a half, turn off the engine.
Also, avoid taking the car out for short distances since not only will you be consuming more fuel, it really isn’t needed. Check your regular routes. Are they congested and cause stop-start driving? Maybe you need to look at a slightly longer but less congested route. You’ll be surprised that despite the increase in miles, your fuel consumption will be less simply because you’ll be driving at a steady speed and not starting and stopping every 10 seconds. Plus, you’ll reach your destination feeling fresher and less stressed.
Regular Car Health Checks
To cut costs on fuel and save money as well, you may have to spend a little on regular health checks for your car. For instance, a dirty engine clogged with carbon deposits can hit your fuel economy. An oil change can improve the situation.
How do you cut costs on fuel? Do share your frugal driving tips!
Next Up: Must-Have Car Accessories for Moms
Photo Credit: futureatlas
WOW! With gas prices being as pricey as they are, this is a very helpful post! Thanks!
Ro
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One trick we use: shop around for gas and track your mileage – we notice that we get 2-5 miles MORE per gallon when we use our local gas station rather than one of the larger “chain stores!”
Thank you Jessica! That is a great trick, indeed.