Avoid being a victim at the pump.
(PRWEB) October 19, 2005 -- Since the price of gas has risen to phenomenal highs, local news has reported several cases of "pump and drive theft." When apprehended, they are arrested as criminals, Lois Center-Shabazz the editor of MsFinancialSavvy.com calls them victims. She says these thefts could have been averted if the individuals understood gas savings in the first place.
She recommends these important steps to improve your gas performance:
Using Your Air Conditioner requires a significant amount of gas. Park your car in the shade to keep it cool, and use a sun shield if you have to park in blistering heat. Roll down the window, and enjoy the fresh air as you drive.
At the gas pump don't use premium fuel unless you have too. When you are pumping your gas don't top it off, gas can be wasted in fumes and by dripping outside your tank.
The heavier your car, the more gas it takes to pull it. Remove heavy loads from your trunk and car as soon as they are no longer needed. Pulling a trailer can increase your gas load significantly.
If you drive at the speed limit you will use less gas. Stop and go traffic and heavy brake action takes more gas, so limit the brake action, look for roads with less stop and go traffic. Use your cruise control when you are on the highway. Brake gently when possible, and try to avoid fast starts. Keep up with your local traffic report online or on your local news, to avoid heavy traffic.
It takes more gas to warm up a cold car than a warm car. Try to make all of your trips together. On days that you have a high volume of errands to run, map out your route so you can travel in one direction, so you don’t have to back track using gas unnecessarily.
A well-maintained car runs efficiently and saves gas. Your tires should be properly inflated and rotated on a regular basis. Your car should have regularly scheduled tune-ups. Monitor your fuel levels and change air and fuel filter as needed. If you hear unusual noises, see black smoke, or the car seems out of balance, have these areas checked out immediately by a qualified auto mechanic.
If your destiny is close enough to walk to, do so. Don't drive to the library around the corner from your home, the grocery store two blocks away for one gallon of milk, or the dry cleaners four blocks away. All of these places are easily accessible by car and the exercise doesn't hurt either.
Saving money on gas will also help the environment.
Lois Center-Shabazz is the author of the 3-time award-winning book, "Let’s Get Financial Savvy!" ISBN #0971979502, and the editor of the critically acclaimed personal finance website, www.msfinancialsavvy.com.
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