10 Tips for Better Mileage in Lexington MA

If you live in the Lexington MA area and drive a hybrid car, ride a bike or are lucky enough to work from home, you don’t need to worry about raising gas prices. But for the rest of us the high price of gas is one more expense we hate to spend. There are several things you can do to get better gas mileage from your vehicles. According to an online resource for automotive information, Edmunds.com suggests these helpful tips.

1. Follow the Recommended Maintenance - A well-maintained vehicle will operate more efficiently. Fouled spark plugs, dirty air filters and clogged fuel filters will diminish fuel economy.

2. Keep Tires Properly Inflated - Under-inflated tires require more energy to roll; properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by as much as 3 percent.

3. Take a Load Off - Heavier vehicles require more energy to move. Pack light and remove unnecessary items from the car.

4. Don't Drive Aggressively - Hitting the gas pedal hard after stopping, slamming on the brakes and speeding all decrease fuel efficiency.

5. Use the Highest Gear Possible - Lower gears use more power, so manual transmission drivers should switch to a higher gear when driving at a steady speed, and automatic transmission drivers should avoid using "sport" mode.

6. Use Cruise Control Selectively - Cruise control is a great asset on flat roads, but isn't the most efficient on hilly terrain.

7. Think Clean - Keeping your car washed and waxed improves its aerodynamics, thereby improving fuel efficiency. On a long trip, a quick run through a gas station car wash might more than pay for itself.

8. Avoid Excessive Idling - An idling car burns fuel. Whenever possible, turn your car off while waiting, and try to avoid drive-through windows and long toll booth lines.

9. Think Before You Ventilate - Air conditioning consumes more fuel, while rolled down windows decreases aerodynamics. Roll down windows when in slow-moving traffic; use the air conditioner when traveling at high speeds.

10. Combine Your Errands - Cold engines use more fuel than warm engines. Combining errands means the engine will be warmer for more of the trip.

So as you are driving around Lexington MA looking for your next home, keep these car care tips in mind!