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· Good inflation: Drivers waste millions of gallons of fuel each year due to under-inflated tires. Maintaining optimum tire inflation is one of the best things you can do to increase fuel economy. Inflate your tires to the upper limit of the manufacturer's recommendations. Check tire pressure when the tires are cold for accurate, consistent readings. Invest in a quality tire gauge like a dial model with a bleeder valve.
· Weight watchers: It obviously takes more energy (gas) to move a heavier object. Inspect your trunk and remove any unnecessary junk. Don't carry chains in the summer. When it snows, keep the snow off the roof and trunk of your car. Snow can be very heavy. Slush around the wheel wells is also very heavy.
· Fill'r up, not over: When you buy gas, stop when the pump shuts off automatically (unless you know that it did so prematurely).
· Don't be idle: Modern, fuel-injected engines do not need to be warmed up, and unnecessary idling wastes fuel. Just take it easy for the first couple miles.
· Stay in tune: Keep your car in top mechanical shape. It will run better, last longer, and return better fuel economy. Follow the manufacturer's maintenance schedule. You can check the air filter by holding it up to a bright light. If it looks clogged or obviously dirty, replace it. Air filters are very inexpensive at national chain stores such as K-Mart, Wal-Mart, and Target. Keep tabs on the fuel filter, also.
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