Top Tips for Reducing Your Mileage Costs

The cost of gas, along with insurance, is the largest money-sink associated with owning and driving a car. So, in this article, we’ll be looking at quick and simple tips you can use to bring down your costs at the pump.

Ditch the Roof Rack

It might come as a surprise, but the eggheads over at Berkeley University found that having a roof rack attached to your car could increase your cost at the pump by up to 25%. 

This is because of the added weight and wind resistance. Simply put, if you have a roof rack, your engine has to work harder, which means you use more fuel.

The good news is that there are plenty of roof racks out there that are built to be easily detachable, so if you need one, find one that won’t take you half a day to remove.

Close Your Windows 

Much like the roof rack, having your windows open really effects the amount of wind resistance that your car has to push through as you pick up speed, Just having your front windows open can increase your fuel consumption by up to 10%.

Given the efficiency of modern air conditioning units, it’s normally more cost-effective to close you windows and turn up your air-con.

Get a Service

There are a myriad of reasons that you should get your car regularly serviced if nothing else it means you’re far less likely to break down. 

However, it can also save you when it comes to paying for your gas, as a regularly serviced car has, on average, 4% better gas mileage than one that isn’t.

Use Cruise Control

Most modern cars are one huge computer and are able to control the engine through micro-inputs far more smoothly than you can with your feet. 

If you’re driving down a long stretch of road, try putting your car into cruise control or, if you car has one, Eco-mode, and let the car drive itself as efficiently as possible.

Obviously, you’ll need to stay aware and in control of your vehicle even when it is in cruise control. Don’t be tempted to fall asleep or head into the back of the RV to make a sandwich.

Don’t Carry Around Excess Weight

Cleaning out your car, and especially your trunk can be a messy and boring process. But, not getting rid of all that junk you’ve been carrying around could cost you in the long run. 

Every 100 pounds of additional weight could cost you 1%-2% on your fuel economy, so it’s probably best to set aside a few hours over the weekend to make sure you’re not spending money to carry around things you don’t need. 

Expert Training

The Northwest Driving School and Traffic School provides the Las Vegas community with live driving and traffic classes taught by seasoned instructors. All of our driving instructors have passed background checks, each automobile is DMV safety-approved and every member of the Northwest family is committed to providing excellent drivers ed and behind the wheel instruction.

At Northwest, you can expect to find outstanding classes, both on campus and behind the wheel, that are engaging, fact-filled, entertaining and geared toward success. We make no bones about it, we believe that Northwest provides the best driving lessons in Las Vegas, no matter your age or background. We are proud of the fact that 98% of our students pass their test on the first try. Call us at (702) 403-1592 to start your driving adventure with one of our expert instructors.

Written by:
Rich Heinrich
Master Instructor, Emeritus