For a new driver, the gas station is a very scary place. It’s a tangle of pumps, hoses, cars, credit card slots, ads, and to top it all off, it smells bad. I can never quite remember where the lever is to pop open the gas cap, and when I finally find it, it’s almost impossible to unscrew the inside cap. The pump is heavy and dirty, but the worst is paying. What high schooler has $50 on hand?
Due to my fear of the gas station, I try to stay away using any means possible. Even for those adults who have conquered their irrational phobias, no one likes spending more than they have to on gas. My number one suggestion would be to buy a Prius, Leaf, Volt, or just a serviceable bike. If none of those are available, however, check your tire pressure. When tires are low on air it takes more energy, in the form of gas, to push them around each time they turn. According to Mythbusters, if your tires have 30psi (5psi under the recommended 35), your car will increase fuel consumption by 1.2%. If your tires have 40psi, your fuel consumption will increase by 6.2%.
To make sure you’re getting the highest fuel efficiency possible, check the air. It’s most accurate to have your own gauge (available at auto part stores), but there are usually ones at gas stations. If you've never done it before, reference this article: http://www.dmv.org/how-to-guides/check-tire-pressure.php.
My second suggestion to cut down on costs and emissions is to turn your car off. If you have to wait for your child, friend, parent for more than 10 seconds, you’re using more energy than you would if you started your car up again. In doing so, there’s more carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which increases the effects of global warming.
So, check your tire pressure and stop idling. Two easy ways to save your cash and the environment.
