Improving your vehicle's fuel economy can lead to significant financial savings and fewer environmentally damaging carbon emissions. It can also mean less vehicle wear and tear, resulting in fewer automotive repairs and lower maintenance costs. Below, discover a few ways to increase your vehicle's gas mileage.

3 Ways to Get the Most Mileage Out of Your Tank

1. Slow Down

When you drive fast, your vehicle requires more energy to overcome the natural resistance of the air. More energy demands more engine power, which, in turn, utilizes greater amounts of fuel. So, simply put, driving at consistently higher speeds uses more gas. 

Combat this by slowing down, ideally to anywhere between 50 and 60 miles per hour on the highway whenever possible. Similarly, don't slam on the gas pedal when accelerating, as this requires more engine power and, thus, more fuel; instead, aim to gradually increase speed with a gentle application of the pedal. 

2. Be Mindful of the Load

How much weight your vehicle routinely carries ultimately has a major influence on fuel economy. The heavier the load, the harder the engine will have to work to maintain momentum and speed, using up more gas in the process. 

Remove from your vehicle those heavy items that you don't regularly use, like tools or sporting equipment. Also, reduce wind resistance and drag by removing unused racks or storage components from your vehicle roof.

3. Keep Up on Automotive Repairs & Maintenance

Take your vehicle in for prompt automotive repairs at the first sign of trouble. This will ensure that the cause of the issue is addressed and further problems, which could include compromised fuel economy, are prevented. 

Also, schedule routine maintenance as suggested by the vehicle manufacturer. Changing the air filters, keeping the tires sufficiently inflated, performing wheel alignments, and cleaning out the fuel injectors are just a few maintenance tasks that can improve your gas mileage.

When you need automotive repairs or service to boost your fuel economy, Jerry Ernst Auto Body can help. Since 1972, they have been serving the Eastern Cincinnati, OH, and Northern Kentucky area. They provide the auto body repairs that will keep your vehicle running and looking its best. Call (513) 871-7200 or visit their website to schedule an estimate.