Money Saving Tips at the Pump

I was recently contacted by a Jiffy Lube representative about some great money saving tips with our cars and wanted to share. I don't know if I've mentioned on this blog yet, but in 3 weeks I am going on a Cruise with my hubby for a week to celebrate his graduation and our 5 year anniversary, I am EXTREMELY excited! We will be gone 8 days and to save a couple hundred dollars we have chosen to drive to our port in LA. Plus, I LOVE road trips!! I didn't really go on them as a kid so now I LOVE any chance I get for a good long road trip. Give me a book of Sudoku puzzles, apple juice, some great music and I'm set!

I thought these were some great tips to go through and consider before we all start heading out for the summer. Let me know what you think!

Guest post by Jiffy Lube
TIPS TO SAVE MONEY AT THE PUMP

We can shave off dollars every day by doing little things. The tips below from the car-care experts at Jiffy Lube will not only help keep your vehicle in top shape – helping to avoid potentially costly breakdowns in the future – and put a few dollars back in your pocket.

Engine Air Filter:
An air filter is essentially your vehicle’s lung. A clean air filter helps the engine “breathe” and run more efficiently, while a clogged one makes the engine work harder. According to the Federal Government, replacing a clogged air filter can improve your car’s gas mileage by as much as 10%. Check your vehicle owner’s manual for when to replace your engine air filter.

Tires:
Tires can be gas bandits as under-inflated tires create extra friction where the rubber meets the road. Incorrectly inflated tires also wear unevenly, which can impact your vehicle’s traction on the road and possibly lead to a dangerous blowout. According to the Federal Government, you can improve your gas mileage by around 3.3% by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. You can find your vehicle’s recommended tire pressure information in the vehicle owner’s manual or often on a decal typically in the vehicle’s door jamb or in the vehicle owner’s manual.

Oil Grade:
Motor oil lubricates the engine, keeping it cool and reducing friction between moving parts. As the motor oil circulates, it also cleans away harmful dirt and contaminants. When motor oil gets too dirty, it loses some of its lubrication and absorption abilities. According to the Federal Government, using your vehicle owner’s manual recommended grade oil can improve your gas mileage up to 2% -- savings which can add up over time! Refer to your vehicle owner’s manual for the correct grade of motor oil for your vehicle.

Lighten Your Load:
Extra weight means more strain on your vehicle and more fuel burn. According to the Federal Government, vehicle drag can decrease your vehicle’s fuel efficiency by 2%. Leave unnecessary items at home before setting out on a drive.
*maybe I should lose a few pounds ;)

Avoid Aggressive Driving:
According to the Federal Government, rapid acceleration/braking can lower your gas mileage up to 5% around town.

Carpooling:
Taking advantage of carpools could cut your weekly gas usage in half. Not only will mom save a few bucks, but she’ll get some much-needed time back!