Ten Ways To Save Money On Gas

Unfortunately, the outlook isn't good for the spring and summer. In fact, gas prices could break their current record. Here are some tips to help you save on fuel from TrueCar.com:

1. Drive Wisely. According to the EPA, aggressive driving can lower your gas mileage by 33% on the highway. It's better to accelerate and brake smoothly.

2. Slow Down. Most vehicles get the most amount of fuel efficiency when driving between 45 and 55 mph. The Department of Energy says for every five miles you drive going in excess of 60 mph, you could lose up to 23% of fuel efficiency.

3. Keep Your Tires Inflated: Having the incorrect amount of pressure in your tires causes you to consume more fuel when driving and creates more wear on your tire tread. It's also important for safety reasons too.

4. Reduce Idling: If you're at a railroad crossing or waiting to pick someone up, turn off your engine. Idling wastes more gas than turning off your engine and restarting it.

5. Reduce Weight In Your Vehicle: It's time to empty out that trunk and keep only the necessary items as weight affects the fuel economy of your vehicle.

6. Regular Maintenance: Follow your owner's manual when it comes to regular maintenance. A vehicle that's had its oil changed (along with a new, clean air filter) and tune-up will burn less fuel.

7. Shop For Gas: Websites like GasBuddy.com and certain GPS devices can help you search for the lowest gas price based on where you live or your current location. Additionally, this can prevent you from burning more fuel while looking for cheaper gas. You can even track how much money you've spent on gas and your miles driven at FuelFrog. com.

8. Use Preimum Fuel Only When Needed: Often, using regular unleaded won't hurt your vehicle even if the vehicle requires premium unleaded. Unless your engine starts to knock or ping when using a lower-grade fuel, it is safe to use regular unleaded instead of premium.

9. Carpool: If you share a ride with just one person, you're cutting your fuel bill in half and you're helping the environment. If you want to carpool but can't find anyone that you know who will do it with you, check out eRideShare and Carpool World to help you find someone.

10. Buy a Fuel-Efficient Car: Buying a fuel-efficient car can help ease some of the burden of higher fuel prices. If you're buying a new car, consider a subcompact or compact car that averages 30 mpg combined or better. Or consider a hybrid or diesel vehicle. But keep in mind that some hybrids have a price premium compared to their gasoline-powered counterpart and might not make financial sense.