Simple Tips To Help You Save At The Pump

The holidays are over and the bills are starting to come in.  I hate that overwhelming feeling when you know you have to pay bills but aren't sure how that is going to happen.  So, then I start to rack my brain on how to save a little so that I can get my finances in order.

I'm sure this isn't going to make a huge difference but it should help a little.  And, at this point it's better than nothing.

According to Netscape.com, if you do these simple tips with your vehicle you could get an extra 5 miles per gallon of gas.  I'll take it!  Check out these simple yet effective tips!

· Monitor tires-- Underinflated tires or poorly aligned wheels waste fuel by forcing the engine to work harder.

(Let the tires cool down before checking the air pressure.)

Out-of-line wheels, as evidenced by uneven tread wear, should be aligned by a professional.

· Remove excess weight-- Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Less weight means better mileage.

· Consolidate trips and errands-- Also, try to travel when traffic is light so you can avoid stop-and-go conditions.

· Avoid excessive idling-- Shut off the engine while waiting for friends and family.

· Observe speed limits-- Besides being dangerous, 75 mph really burns the gas.

· Keep your engine "tuned up--" A well-maintained engine operates at peak efficiency, maximizing gas mileage.

· Use windows and air conditioning wisely-- Your mileage should improve if you keep the windows closed at highway speeds,

since air drag is reduced. This is true even with the air conditioning on -assuming that the system is in good working order.

But turn the air conditioning off in stop-and-go traffic to save fuel.

I hope these tips help!  But, don't ask me to check the air in your tires because I stink at it.