Save on Gas with These 5 Fuel Efficiency Tips

With gas prices reaching nearly $6.00 in Nevada, it’s clear that many Americans are hurting at the pump. 

These pricier-than-normal trips to the gas station aren’t solely to blame on gas prices, though. If you haven’t been taking care of your vehicle, you can be decreasing your fuel efficiency by up to 40 percent in extreme cases. 

Fuel economy is not a fixed number like cargo space; in fact, there are a number of things that can burn or save you fuel. Fortunately, knowing and implementing these maintenance tips and driving habits can save on not only fuel costs but also any costly repairs in the future. Here are some of our favorite gas-saving tips to improve your fuel economy.

1) Service your vehicle’s engine regularly

Taking your car into a dealership for routine maintenance can identify any areas where your vehicle is not performing optimally. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the average driver can improve his or her fuel economy by roughly 10 percent. When you factor in that Americans are spending almost $5,000 a year on gasoline now, that can be a $500 improvement! 

Most important to your vehicle’s mileage is a properly working oxygen sensor. In some cases, this can increase or decrease your efficiency by as much as 40 percent. It might be tempting to delay a trip to the service department, but the money you’ll save on gas is worth it in the long run.

2) Keep tires properly inflated

Underinflated tires burn through fuel quicker, and they’re dangerous, too. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that for every 1 “pound per square inch” or PSI you are under the optimal rate, you lose 0.4 percent of your miles per gallon. Additionally, they estimate the average driver can improve mileage by 3.3 percent by inflating their tires regularly. 

Fortunately, this is a simple fix and can be done at nearly any gas station.  Be sure to check your owner’s manual or tire manufacturer’s website for your vehicle’s specific PSI ratings beforehand.

3) Replace your air filter

Reduced airflow can make your car’s performance suffer. The Department of Energy estimates you could save as much as 22 cents per gallon by replacing a bad air filter. Time to replace yours? Stop in by our Express Service Lane for speedy expert service with no appointment needed. 

4) Follow the speed limit 

Following the speed limit isn’t just the safe thing to do – it can also save you money! Each vehicle reaches its optimal fuel economy at a different speed, but gas mileage usually decreases as speeds climb above 50 mph. The Department of Energy states that for every 5 mph you drive over 50 mph, “you are paying an additional $0.18 per gallon.” 

5) Adopt good driving habits

Kindness on the road pays off. That’s because aggressive driving habits like speeding, gunning the engine, and screeching around corners are major fuel wasters. It’s also just the right thing to do!

Tired of your gas-guzzling vehicle? Trade it in for a newer model! We have dozens of options available now at United Nissan, from award-winning, fuel-efficient models to gas-saving hybrids. Value your trade using our online tool. 

Or, if you’re tired of gas altogether – go electric. United Nissan in Las Vegas, NV has various all-electric options for drivers. Shop our new Nissan models and used car lot online or visit us in-store at 3025 E Sahara Ave.