Save Gas Without Driving Less This Labor Day Weekend
ATLANTA--Aug. 27, 2001--Even with the high price of gasoline in most places this year, the road trip you're planning this Labor Day weekend does not need to break the family bank.
Before you plan to spend more at the pump, you may want to take a look at ways to use less gas during your trip - not by driving less, but by stretching your tank to get you a little farther before your next fill up.
According to Fuel Specialist Tom Mulrane, a manager in STP Research and Development who has studied the flow of gasoline for more than 20 years, it is easier to stretch your gas dollar than most people think. The key, he says, is understanding fuel efficiency and how anyone who gets behind the wheel can have an impact on how efficiently a vehicle burns gasoline.
"You can increase your fuel efficiency by doing simple things to ensure that your car is getting the most out of every tank of gas," Mulrane said.
Mulrane says there are five basic factors that determine your gas mileage, and motorists really are in the driver's seat when it comes to controlling them. He advises to pay careful attention to the following:
| -- | Driving Habits: You can't do much about stop-and-go traffic, but you can stop tailgating. Sudden stops and starts are a major drain on fuel economy. |
| -- | Gas Flow: Make sure your gas is flowing properly. Even small carbon deposits that form on injector tips can decrease fuel efficiency by as much as 11 percent by interfering with the flow of gas. "Using a product such as STP Gas Treatment at every fill up will help keep harmful deposits from ever accumulating," Mulrane said. |
| -- | Tire Pressure: According to industry sources, under-inflated tires can cut your fuel economy by as much as two percent for each missing pound of pressure. Check your owners' manual for the manufacturer's recommended pressure level. |
| -- | Weight: Make sure the weight in your car is evenly distributed. Try not to put anything on the roof of your car. If you do, use a carrier. |
| -- | Aerodynamics: Keeping your car's speed below 55 miles per hour can help to minimize drag. This lower resistance on your vehicle can improve your fuel economy. |
