10 tips for better fuel economy.

The best advice for getting better fuel economy is to buy a fuel efficient car.

1. Make sure your tires are set to the proper inflation. Properly inflated tires can reduce fuel consumption by up to 3%.
2. Tune up your engine. A properly tuned engine maximizes power and can greatly enhance fuel efficiency.
3. Don't accelerate too quickly. Accelerating smoothly keeps the engine at lower rpm's thus using less fuel.
4. Don't speed. The faster you move the harder your engine has to work to push through the wind. Speeding can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 33%.
5. Check the condition of your engine air filter. A dirty filter will reduce fuel economy.
6. Replace your fuel filter according to your manufacturers recommended schedule. This will go a long way to enhancing fuel efficiency.
7. Avoid excessive idling. Idling a vehicle wastes a significant amount of fuel. The best way to warm up a vehicle is to drive it slowly until it reaches proper operating temperature.
8. Remove excess weight from the truck and/or back seat. An extra 100 pounds reduces fuel consumption by 1-2%.
9. Use cruise control. In most situations using your cruise control reduces fuel consumption by maintaining a constant speed.
10. Although necessary at times, avoid using the air conditioner all the time as it causes the engine to work hard and consume more fuel.

Tell a friend about this article so that they can also save money at the pump.

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Summer Road Trip Tips

With summer right around the corner it'll soon be a great time to take a road trip. Here are some tips to make sure you and your vehicle are prepared for the journey.

• Before you hit the road, have your vehicle inspected. A basic inspection is not very expensive and will cover the brakes, tires, suspension, lights, cooling system, and other basic drive train components. Also, if you have an older vehicle, an air conditioner inspection is also a great idea. You don't want to be driving for hours in the summer with a full load of passengers without air conditioning.
• Check your tire pressure before you leave on a road trip. Most tires require between 30-32psi. Don't forget to check the spare tire as well.
• If you packed anything on the roof of the vehicle, make sure the majority of the weight is concentrated in the middle of the roof.
• Don't pack anything heavy inside the passenger compartment of the vehicle. Heavy and sharp objects can become projectiles during an accident.
• Pack an emergency kit with you. A good emergency kit should include a flashlight, a first aid kit, jumper cables, gloves, rope, and tire inflator.
• Always bring extra water. Although you may be traveling on major roads, a flat tire or breakdown can occur miles from the nearest exit. Standing on the side of the highway in the hot afternoon sun can lead to dehydration. Having extra water will help.
• If you've never changed a flat tire, perhaps you should try it in the comfort of your own driveway a few days before you head out on your trip. The instructions are in your owner's manual and it only takes a few minutes. Don't wait for an emergency to learn.
• While on the road, try to take a 15 minute break every 2 hours. This will keep you alert and fresh.
• Pack plenty of entertainment for children. Travel toys and games can help pass the time and reduce the chances of hearing "are we there yet?" every 10 minutes.
• Whenever you travel make sure that everyone has proper identification and required documentation. This is especially important when traveling across state and national boarders.

A road trip can be a fun experience. Follow these tips to make sure it's a safe and enjoyable journey.

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