10 Tips for Saving Money on Gas

Fuel costs can be a big part of your budget, and the fact that they fluctuate means you can’t always know what to expect. While you can’t control the price of fuel, you can find some of the best ways to save money on gas. Here are some strategies to try. 

Another way to save money on your auto expenses is to review your insurance coverage. Talk to Farm Bureau and review your policy to see if there are ways for you to save. 

1. Look for Discounts 

Joining a loyalty program or using a certain credit card can get you a lower price per gallon. Some gas stations may offer lower prices if you pay with cash. To help you compare local gas prices, there are apps that can help you find the cheapest fuel, like GasBuddy or Upside. If you’d rather not download an app, a search in Google Maps may show you prices in your area.  

2. Plan Your Errands 

Try to do your errands in one trip and think through the shortest route. Doing errands during rush hour or on a Friday afternoon can add time to your trip, and in turn, use more gas. If you can, do your errands when traffic is lighter. That way, you save both gas and time.

3. Pay Attention to Your Tires 

Make sure your tires are properly inflated, especially after big temperature changes or if you haven’t used your car for a while. This can improve your fuel economy by up to 3%. 

When it’s time to replace your tires, look for energy-efficient models that require less physical force, and thus fuel, to keep rolling. 

4. Keep a Steady Pace 

Hard acceleration and braking wastes gas. Gently speeding up and slowing down early when you see traffic ahead of you can gain you 2 to 3 miles per gallon.  

5. Leave Your Auto Stop/Start On 

When you’re driving in stop-and-go traffic or where there are a lot of traffic lights, letting your engine turn off and on automatically can cut your fuel use by 7 to 26 percent. If your car has this feature, don’t disable it. 

6. Don’t Idle Your Engine 

Today’s engines don’t need to warm up, even in winter. If your car was built after 1980, your car actually only needs a few seconds before you can start driving. If you have a hybrid or electric car, you don’t need to wait at all. Limiting your warm-up time can give you better fuel efficiency, reduce emissions and lead to longer engine life.  

7. Don’t Speed on the Highway 

Speeding isn’t just dangerous. It can be expensive, too. Slowing down when you’re driving on the highway could gain you 8 miles per gallon. If you find you’re speeding up without realizing it, using your cruise control can help you maintain a consistent speed.  

8. Take Off Racks You Don’t Need 

Roof racks, bike racks and cargo boxes add drag to your car and reduce your fuel efficiency. When you’re not using them, remove them from your vehicle. 

9. Decide if You Need Premium Gas 

Check your owner’s manual to see if premium gas is recommended or required. If it’s recommended, there’s a good chance your car will do just fine with regular gas. If you use regular gas, keeping up on your car maintenance regularly can also help you avoid any unnecessary costs and know when it’s time to switch to premium gas if needed.  

10. Park in the Shade 

Parking under cover, using a sunshade or rolling the windows down on side streets cuts down on the air conditioning you need, and the gas you need to power it. 

Get Money-Saving Tips From a Pro 

Along with saving money on gas, you may also be able to reduce the amount you’re spending on auto insurance. Reach out to Farm Bureau to review your policy and see if you can save.