Tips for Saving Money on Gas

With gas prices always fluctuating, every driver is looking for ways to save at the pump. Whether you're commuting daily or taking a road trip, making small changes to your driving habits and vehicle maintenance can significantly improve fuel efficiency. At Brady’s Towing and Roadside Assistance, we know that every dollar counts, so here are some practical tips to help you save money on gas.

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1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Underinflated tires create more resistance on the road, making your engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure at least once a month and keep it at the recommended PSI (found in your owner’s manual or on the sticker inside the driver’s door). Properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3%.

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2. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Aggressive Acceleration

Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Instead, accelerate gradually and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. Using cruise control on highways helps maintain efficiency, reducing fuel consumption by up to 15%.

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3. Avoid Excessive Idling

Letting your car idle burns fuel unnecessarily. If you’re waiting in a parked vehicle for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Many newer cars have auto start-stop features that help reduce fuel waste.

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4. Reduce Unnecessary Weight

Carrying extra weight in your trunk or cargo area forces your engine to use more fuel. Remove unnecessary items, and avoid using roof racks or cargo carriers unless needed, as they create drag and reduce fuel efficiency.

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5. Plan Your Trips Efficiently

Combine errands into one trip instead of making multiple short drives. Cold starts use more fuel, so planning your route to minimize backtracking and unnecessary driving can make a difference in your gas usage.

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6. Use the Right Motor Oil and Keep Up with Maintenance

Using the correct grade of motor oil recommended for your vehicle can improve fuel efficiency. Regular oil changes, replacing air filters, and keeping your engine tuned up help maintain optimal gas mileage. A dirty air filter can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 10%.

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7. Buy Gas at the Right Time

Gas prices tend to be lower early in the week (Monday or Tuesday) before midweek price hikes. Also, filling up in the morning or late evening helps reduce fuel evaporation since gas is denser in cooler temperatures.

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8. Use Gas Rewards Programs and Apps

Many gas stations offer loyalty programs that provide discounts on fuel. Apps like GasBuddy and Waze can help you find the cheapest gas stations near you, saving you money over time.

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9. Limit Use of Air Conditioning

Running the AC puts extra strain on your engine, reducing fuel efficiency. When driving at lower speeds, roll down the windows instead. At highway speeds, keep the windows up to reduce drag and use the AC sparingly.

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10. Consider Carpooling or Using Fuel-Efficient Vehicles

If possible, carpooling with coworkers or friends can cut fuel costs in half. If you're in the market for a new vehicle, consider fuel-efficient or hybrid options to save money in the long run.

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Final Thoughts

Saving money on gas is all about smart driving habits and regular vehicle maintenance. Implementing even a few of these tips can help stretch your fuel budget and keep more money in your pocket.

If you ever run out of gas or need roadside assistance, Brady’s Towing and Roadside Assistance is just a call away! We’re here to help with fuel delivery, towing, and other roadside services whenever you need them.

Need roadside assistance? Contact us today!