Posted February 1, 2016 by Ali's Woodinville
No matter what you drive, fuel is your most variable ongoing expense. We have little control over the price of fuel, but we can save money at the pump by using gas efficiently. This matters even more for pickups, because they tend to be less fuel efficient than cars and other smaller vehicles. Saving some cash on gas can be as simple as following a few fuel economy tips. Below are some easy ways to save money at the pump and be more efficient with the resources you use.
1. Remove the Extra Weight
The more your truck is carrying, the more fuel it uses. If you don’t need it on or in your pickup, take it off. You’ll see your tank go a bit further.
2. Maximize Your Driving Efficiency
As with any vehicle, planning your trips before you leave and finding the best routes can save you gas, and time. Remember to check traffic on your route before you get stuck in a backup.
3. Avoid Unnecessary Speeding and Hard Acceleration
As your pickup goes faster, its fuel efficiency drops because of increased air resistance. Also try to accelerate gently, since revving the engine hard burns fuel quickly.
4. Choose Synthetic Oil
Even though synthetic oil may cost a little more up front, it reduces friction between moving parts and helps your engine perform its best. Just make sure it’s the grade your owner’s manual calls for, and keep up with oil changes on schedule, especially if you tow or haul.
5. Keep Your Tire Pressure at the Recommended PSI
Low tire pressure makes the engine work harder to move the truck. Check it about once a month, and use the number on the sticker inside the driver’s door jamb.
6. Stay Away from Lift Kits and Oversized Wheels
When your pickup’s body sits higher, there’s more wind resistance as you drive. Oversized wheel packages add weight and drag too, and take more power (and fuel) to turn. Lifts may look good, but they’ll cost you more at the pump.
Keep Your Truck Running Efficiently
A truck that’s overdue for service burns more fuel than it should, too. A clogged air filter, worn spark plugs or a dragging brake can all quietly cut your mileage, and on diesel pickups, a dirty fuel filter does the same. We service gas and diesel trucks, and we handle fleet service for local company vehicles.
When you’re looking to make cost-effective decisions about your pickup, or any other vehicle you own, choose Ali’s Woodinville Auto Repair for your regular maintenance and repairs. We’re locally based, family owned, and have the experience to maintain and repair any make or model.
Call 425-420-1630 or request an appointment to get your truck in.
