From the American Automobile Association

From the American Automobile Association

k Use octane called for by the manufacturer. Check your vehicle owner’s manual. If your vehicle does not require premium or mid-grade fuel, purchase less expensive, regular unleaded gas.

k Moving components should be properly lubricated and ignition and emission systems operating properly. This will help your vehicle achieve maximum fuel economy and extend its useful life.

k Use air conditioning only when needed. Air conditioning dramatically reduces fuel economy.

kSpark plugs must be in good condition. Some will last for 100,000 miles, but many need to be replaced more often.

k Check the air filter twice a year, or more often in dusty conditions. A dirty air filter increases fuel consumption and can cause poor performance.

k Take advantage of cruise control feature to help you maintain a constant speed when traveling on highways.

kTake care of car-care “incidentals” that can affect fuel use. For example, a defective radiator thermostat can waste gas by extending the engine’s warm-up time or decreasing the engine’s operating emperature.

kMake sure a replacement gas cap is the right one for your car. A poorly fitting cap can cause engine problems.

kChange your oil when you tune-up your car, and use the weight recommended by the manufacturer.

k Wheels need to be properly aligned to prevent drag and shortened tire life.

Driving Habits

k Consolidate trips and errands to cut down on driving time and keep needless miles off the odometer. Find one location where you can take care of all banking, grocery shopping and other chores if possible.

kSlow down. The faster a vehicle travels, the more gas it burns.

k Avoid quick starts and sudden stops. Idling your engine for one minute consumes the gas amount equivalent to when you start the engine.

k Shop for low gasoline prices locally, but don’t waste gas driving to a distant filling station to save a few cents. Buy gasoline during coolest time of day or late evening. During these times gasoline is densest.

k Maintain steady speeds for the best fuel economy. A car uses extra fuel when it accelerates.

k Don’t top off your gas tank. In warm weather, fuel expansion can cause an overflow.

kKeep windows closed when traveling at highway speeds. Open windows cause air drag, reducing your mileage by 10 percent.

kThink ahead when approaching hills. If you accelerate, do it before you reach the hill, not while you’re on it.

k Carpool.