It’s the topic of conversation at all your recent BBQs and playdates, and it’s held a steady spot in global news for months.
Okay, we have to say it: gas prices have been insane! We can’t help it: when the price of something doubles in a year, it’s going to be a hot topic.
To save on gas, some people drive all over town, but this is a penny-wise and a pound foolish as you waste gas while blowing through your precious time. Focus your efforts first and foremost on the following:
Be a smooth operator: that means ease into acceleration and glide into stops. Herky-jerky driving wastes gas — and it’s harder on your car, too.
Stay up on maintenance like oil changes, brakes, filters, etc. When your car is properly maintained, it runs at its optimum level. Our service depart- ment is happy to help you out.
Don’t speed. Experts say that after 50 mph, fuel economy greatly reduces. For highways and freeways, use your cruise control for better mileage.
Your dad was mostly right: roll up the windows on highways and use the AC. At low speeds, using the AC is less efficient, so windows down is a better move.
Keep your tires properly inflated. That means not over- or under-inflated, as both are problematic for fuel efficiency (and safety). A quick tire check is worth your time.
Avoid idling. Turn off your engine while waiting in a drive-through.
Because they are a literal drag: remove unnecessary pods, racks and junk in the trunk.
Batch your outings. If you need to hit the grocery store, consider what else you might be able to do along the route: go through the car wash, take a donation to St. Vincent de Paul’s, etc.
Carpool for kids’ stuff: Your neighbor’s child gets out of the same school at the same time as yours? Offer to give them a ride. It’s one less car in the pickup line, and you can trade shifts with the other parent. If your child is going to practice three times a week, set up a car pool. Bonus: saves you precious time.
Upgrade to a fuel efficient car: the time may be right to upgrade. Visit us at Capitol Auto to learn more. Bring the kids — we have an adorable play area and snacks, too.
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Meet Laura Augustine
Laura Augustine has worked as a finance assistant at Capitol Auto Group for 7 years. She is the proud mom of three kids (four, if you count her husband Chad): Ariel, age 23; Claudia, age 22; and Bryson, age 18. As a family, they love to go fishing and boating at Detroit Lake, and they also have four Saint Bernard Dogs: Grace, Ted, Jerry and Stuart.