The energy consumed by transportation sources takes up 67 percent of U.S. oil, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Not only does your vehicle consume the nonrenewable resource, it costs you a significant amount of money every time you fill your tank. Simple changes in the way you drive and care for your vehicle help increase the energy efficiency.
Maintenance
A car that is properly maintained runs more efficiently, decreasing the amount of fuel consumed. Clogged air filters, old spark plugs and transmission problems are a few vehicle problems that can decrease its fuel efficiency, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. Regular maintenance checks by a mechanic help diagnose these problems early so they can be repaired. Proper inflation and alignment of your tires keeps your car running at a higher fuel efficiency. Following the manufacturer's recommendation for motor oil grade is another simple way to keep your car running efficiently.
Eliminate Idling
Many people allow their cars to idle on cold winter days to warm up the engine. The U.S. Department of Energy states that idling the car isn't necessary in the winter. Driving the vehicle is the best way to warm it up. Letting your car warm up in the driveway wastes energy and increases emissions.
Slow Down
Your driving habits make an impact on how much fuel your vehicle consumes. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends staying below 60 mph. Higher speeds make your fuel efficiency drop significantly. Avoid aggressive driving, which can also make a serious dent in your car's fuel efficiency. Behaviors such as hard braking and quick accelerations may lower your fuel efficiency by 33 percent on the highway.
Reduce Resistance
Reducing the resistance of your car also reduces your fuel usage. Placing items on a roof rack may decrease the car's fuel efficiency by at least 5 percent, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. When possible, place all of your luggage and other items inside the vehicle.
Removing excess weight from the vehicle helps conserve energy. Every 100 lbs. of extra weight may make your fuel efficiency go down by up to 2 percent.
Reduce Driving
Reducing the amount of time you drive your car means less fuel is used. If public transportation is available, consider taking it to work or to run errands at least part of the time. Walking or riding your bike is another option. When you need to drive your vehicle, www.fueleconomy.gov recommends combining trips. Run all of your errands at once rather than making several shorter trips. By making one long trip, the engine stays warm, which may use less fuel.
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