There are plenty of ways to save money on a new or used car purchase. But the savings don’t have to stop there. Below are 10 money-saving driving tips for long after the point of sale.
Be Kind to Your Wallet With These Driving Tips
Drive smooth and steady
Fast driving and quick accelerating may be a thrill, but it’s a costly one. Driving just below the speed limit and avoiding quick accelerations uses your gas more efficiently and reduces wear and tear on tires and engine parts.
Avoid excessive idling
If you’re stuck at a railroad crossing, waiting for a passenger to run inside a store or any other situation where you might be idling for more than just a minute, go ahead and turn off the engine. In addition to further polluting the air, idling your engine is a major waste of gas.
Monitor your tire pressure
Under-inflated tires cut into your gas mileage and are also prone to wear out faster. Keep tabs on your tire pressure, especially during the winter as colder temperatures can cause tires to lose PSI.
Use the right oil
The wrong motor oil can cause the engine to work harder, which wastes gas and wears down parts. Determine the right type of oil for your car and have it changed according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Change your filters
Clean air and oil filters help your engine run more efficiently. Change your oil filter every time you have your oil changed, and change out your air filters every 12,000 to 15,000 miles. The upfront investment will pay off in the long run, and you’ll extend the life of certain engine parts and get better gas mileage in the meantime.
Use cruise control when you can
Using cruise control when out on the open road can conserve fuel and prevent the engine from being overworked. Just know when and when not to use cruise control, and follow the recommended safety tips for doing so.
Fill up early in the week
Gas prices typically rise later in the week as the weekend nears, so topping off on a Monday or Tuesday can often save you a few bucks at the pump. You can also use an app like GasBuddy to compare prices on your smartphone.
Have regular tuneups
A finely tuned vehicle is not only safer and more reliable, but it’s also a money saver. You’ll improve gas mileage, cut down on wear and tear, and detect any minor problems before they become bigger and more expensive fixes.
Turn off the air conditioning when possible
Opt for cracking some windows in lieu of running the air conditioner. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the air conditioner can reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy by more than 25%.
Drive a more fuel-efficient car
Today’s cars are becoming impressively fuel efficient. And it’s not just small cars, hybrids, and electric cars, either. Even many trucks and SUVs, long considered gas guzzlers, are now getting in on the act and displaying some competitive fuel economy. Consider trading in your vehicle for one that is more efficient.
Savings Start in Madison, WI
Kickstart your savings at Zimbrick Automotive by scheduling some preventive maintenance or checking out our selection of new and used vehicles for sale. You can use the tips above to save money while you drive, but a trip to Zimbrick can get you started down the right path.
Come see us at your nearest location in Madison, Wisconsin, today.
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