False Or True: Driving 55 Miles Per Hour Will Save You Money On Gas
posted in Driving Tips |In the 1970’s and 1980’s the speed limit on the highways was 55 m.p.h. Rumor has it that this was because cars get better gas mileage driving at 55 m.p.h rather than at the faster 65 m.p.h. to 75 m.p.h. speed limits that are common today.There actually is truth behind the theory that driving 55 m.p.h will save you money on gasoline. According to fueleconomy.gov, although every car will reach maximum fuel economy at a different speed, the general rule of thumb is that gas mileage begins to drop quickly once you start going over 60 m.p.h. In fact, fuel economy can drop about 10% between going 55 m.p.h. and 65 m.p.h. That means that just by driving slower you can save yourself a lot of gas.Keep in mind that it is not always safe to drive well below the speed limit. However, you can driver under the speed limit and stay in the slow lane to save a bit of money on your daily commute.Along with slowing down there are many other ways that you can get better mileage in your car. Try accelerating before you get to a hill rather than once you are already climbing it. Check your tires frequently to be sure they are properly inflated and that they are balanced.
Under inflated, wobbly tires can cost you a lot of money in lost gas mileage - not to mention putting you at risk of an accident. You should also be sure to take off your snow tires during the warmer months since the deeper tread can decrease your mileage.Always try to stick to paved roads since gravel or dirt roads can severely cut down your fuel economy. Another great rule of thumb is to avoid tailgating. Riding too close behind another car will cause you to speed up and slow down more frequently which can decrease gas mileage.If possible, try to leave your house a little earlier in the morning and leave work a little later in the evening to avoid the brunt of rush hour. Even if traffic is a little lighter you can save a lot of gas by avoiding sitting in traffic or stop and go driving. If you have clear roads consider using your cruise control since it will allow you to go at a constant speed and thus cut down on fuel usage.Removing any excess weight that you have in your trunk or car can also really help to get better gas mileage. Even just carrying 100 pounds extra in your car can decrease your mileage by about 2%.