Unless you drive an EV, refueling your gas tank is an unavoidable part of life. Whether your current vehicle is a fuel-sipper or a notorious fuel-gulper, there are plenty of tips that can help you stretch your fuel consumption and the time in between trips to the gas station. On the flip side, there are also plenty of myths about fuel economy. Let’s take a look at what will actually help you save gas and what doesn’t.
Slow Down
Dropping your speed on the highway is the best way to get more mileage out of your gas tank. According to Consumer Reports, slowing a small car down from 65 mph to 55 mph can save you about six mpg while slowing a compact SUV from 65 mph to 55 mph can save about eight mpg. That’s a pretty drastic difference in fuel economy!
Leave Extra Gear at Home
Did you know that 50 percent of your engine power at highway speeds goes to overcoming aerodynamic drag? It’s true! One of the biggest ways you can cut the strain on your engine is to remove roof racks, cargo baskets, and any other roof accessory if you don’t need it for that trip.
Cut the AC?
Though it’s true that running your car’s AC when it’s hot outside shaves miles off of your fuel economy, driving with the windows down just isn’t always practical. Especially since we have very hot, humid weather for a lot of the year here in Ayden, sacrificing a couple of miles to stay cool and alert while you drive is always the best choice.
Fuel Efficiency Myths
Though things like limiting your speed and roof cargo can help your fuel economy, there are a lot of myths out there too. These days, running on empty, driving the car as soon as you turn it on, and refueling in the cooler morning air won’t impact your car’s fuel efficiency it might have a few decades ago.
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See Ford’s Most Efficient Vehicles
If you’re looking to upgrade to a Ford vehicle with outstanding fuel economy, check out Ford’s electrified lineup with stars like the Escape Hybrid, F-150, or even the all-electric Mustang Mach-E. Learn more at Doug Henry Ford of Ayden today!