Besides the kind of car you drive, the way you drive it determines fuel efficiency. There are several driving habits you can adopt to optimize your car for maximum fuel efficiency. Each vehicle is built with a type of driver in mind. Also, these steps to optimize fuel efficiency should help your ride last longer, so you can enjoy it for years to come.
Slow Down
Driving fast is extremely fun. We understand the desire to get in the left lane and blow past all those “slowpokes” on the highway. Still, doing so will only cost you gas. Each vehicle has a specific speed where fuel efficiency maxes out, and this is because the wind resistance will start working against you in a noticeable way at certain high speeds. For example, a 20 mph increase can sometimes mean a 10 mpg decrease. For most cars, the optimal fuel efficiency is somewhere around 55 mph. Of course, the only way to fully know about your car is to test it out. If you do not feel like taking a bunch of measurements, just stay in the right lane and use the extra driving time to listen to more tunes and podcasts. Also, you are sure to stay safer at a minimal speed.
Steady as She Goes
Maintaining a steady pace is also a fantastic way to optimize mileage. Fortunately, most cars have standard cruise control to make this easier. By not slamming on the brakes and accelerator, you end up shaving a few miles off of your car’s miles-per-gallon. Also, pay attention to the road so that you can ease into traffic slow-downs and pickups. Not to mention, easing into braking and accelerating is better on your engine, brakes, and transmission, so these tips are beneficial in many ways.
Use the Trunk, Not the Roof
While it might not always be possible, strive to keep your things inside your car. Manufacturers design cars to be aerodynamic, and by putting your luggage on the roof, you are going to need more gas to overcome drag (wind resistance). Obviously, you might need your roof for certain big items, like bikes and canoes. Rather than keeping your canoe on the roof throughout the season, make it a ritual to tie it up on river days. Also, a trunk rack for your bikes will work better than a roof rack.
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Roll Those Windows Down
There is a common myth that at certain speeds, the A/C will use less fuel than rolling your windows down. However, the drag created by opening the windows at highway speeds is negligible. If it is a hot day, your A/C will definitely use up more gas per mile than driving with open windows. Still, A/C often feels better on a hot day and can keep your windows from fogging.
Have you made changes to your driving style, but you still aren’t getting the mileage you want? You can upgrade to a fuel-efficient vehicle to improve your gas mileage immediately. Thomasville Toyota in Thomasville, Georgia, has an assortment of fuel-efficient vehicles that are ready to go home with you today, including new and pre-owned hybrid models. Visit us today to find out how you can increase your gas mileage by driving a new Toyota.
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