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How to save money on gas

How to save money on gas
Photo: Moonstruck Exploring, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

You cannot control fuel prices, but you can control how much fuel you use and where you buy it.

Use less

  1. Drive smoothly. Hard acceleration and braking use more fuel.
  2. Slow down a little on the highway. Fuel economy usually drops at higher speeds.
  3. Keep tires at the recommended pressure, printed inside the driver’s door.
  4. Remove extra weight and unused roof racks.
  5. Do not idle for long periods.
  6. Combine errands into one trip and plan the route.
  7. Keep up with servicing, including air filters and oil changes.

Pay less

  1. Compare prices with a fuel price app before you fill up.
  2. Use a grocery or fuel loyalty program for cents off per gallon or litre.
  3. Use a cash-back credit card only if you pay it off in full.
  4. Buy the grade your car needs. Premium fuel only helps engines that require it.

Bigger changes

  1. Carpool, use transit or cycle for regular trips, and if you are replacing a car, compare running costs as well as the price.

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