Take Less of a Punch at the Gas Pump

Four dollars for a gallon of gasoline was once unthinkable. Now we’re looking back at it through our rear view mirrors. With no relief in sight, drivers must take matters into their own hands to reduce the punch at the pump. While trading in the gas-guzzler for a Vespa scooter might not be possible for most people, we can get smart about how we use our vehicles and spend our fuel dollars.

Here are some suggestions to get you started.

Drive Smart
Just dropping your top highway speed can reduce the amount of gasoline you use. Using cruise control can save you even more. While driving, don’t rest your foot on the brake. The slightest pressure causes drag that increases gas use and can also wear out the brakes.

Be smart with the air conditioning. Closed windows reduce drag while on the highway, but in stop and go traffic shutting off the AC and opening the windows will reduce fuel use.

It seems obvious, but combining multiple errands into one trip will save both time and fuel, especially if you plan the most efficient route ahead of time. Consider investing in a GPS system. It will provide the fastest, most efficient route to your destination and save you money.

Don’t idle. One minute of idling burns the same amount of gas it takes to start the engine.

Maintain Your Vehicle
Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your vehicle, it will save money at the pump.
A well-tuned engine burns less gas. Get regular tune-ups and follow through with routine maintenance.

Keep your tires inflated properly. Under inflated tires waste fuel and wear out the tire tread. Also, check tires regularly for alignment and balance.

Gasoline evaporates quickly if the gas cap isn’t on securely. Buy a new one if yours doesn’t fit right.

Lighten Up
For every extra 250 pounds your engine hauls, the car loses about one mile per gallon in fuel economy. Clean out your trunk and carry only the basic emergency equipment and items you really need.

Shop Around For Gas Prices
Buy the lowest octane of gasoline that is appropriate for your car. Check your owner's manual for this information.

Many gas stations these days offer a discount if you pay cash.

Don't top off the gas tank. You run the risk of gas seeping out and also inhaling dangerous fumes.

Leave the Car at Home
Try public transportation or find a carpool, even if only for one day a week. Many employers offer subsidies for train or bus fares. And websites like ERideShare.com or CarPoolConnect.com make it easy to find drivers willing to share their vehicles.

Find out if You’re Paying Too Much for Car Insurance
Request a free, no-obligation quote from the Travelers Auto Insurance Program for Wachovia Customers, simply visit Wachovia.com. Rates frequently change and vary from insurer to insurer. Your savings could equal hundreds of dollars.

With a little ingenuity and advance planning, you may be able to cut several dollars off of your gas bill and possibly hundreds from your overall car expenses. Happy driving!