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As promised from the last post about spending a million dollars on gas, I went to research on several ways to save us gas. I was able to come up with 11 ways, which I will share with you today. I cannot really measure how much gas this can save me quantitatively, but I know that if I keep disciplined and follow the list below, I will end up saving quite a bit.

1. Tires should be properly inflated – This is one of the most effective ways to save gas and the most overlooked. Why do I think it is overlooked? Just look at the line up to fill up the tank and the empty spot for inflating your tires. I remember last year when I was getting on average 260 miles per tank, and then now I get 290 miles per tank after I inflated my tires (this is a true story for those that do not believe me).
2. Don’t road rage – Fast acceleration and deceleration is a killer for gas mileage. For proof, just compare the gas mileage on the freeway and the stop-and-go traffic of city driving.
3. Reduce the weight the car is carrying – Since losing your own weight and asking your mother-in-law to walk is probably not an option, try to get rid of unused items in your trunk. I’m talking about those golf clubs, fishing polls, comic book library etc.
4. Avoid warm ups – People in cold weather often turn on their car to warm it up before they get in the car. Just make sure to not do this too long because when the car is turned on, gas is burning.
5. Wind resistance – Remember that wind affects gas mileage greatly. This means that rolling down the windows, putting your hand out the window, or putting a flag on top of the car will add wind resistance and ultimately waste more gas.
6. Do not buy premium octane gas if you do not have to – Every car’s owner’s manual will have the lowest octane level of gas the car will take without affecting the engine. My car unfortunately needs the premium gas, or else it will start knocking, but I’m also spending hundreds of dollars more a year than others.
7. Drive slower – This might be why some of the older generation drivers slower! It is not because they want to block everyone, they are actually wiser in knowing that the slower you drive, the less fuel consumption it will be.
8. Tune up regularly – There is nothing like taking care of your engine. If you do regular maintenance on your engine (oil changes regularly, engine parts looked at), you will be surprised the amount of gas you save.
9. Tighten the gas cap – If there is room for gas to escape, it will evaporate so make sure the gas cap is securely on. Buy a new one if you have to.
10. Get a gas efficient car – Next time you buy a car, make sure you check out the gas mileage as one of your top priority. A Honda Civic’s gas mileage is different than a Hummer. Also consider getting a hybrid as they are getting more and more popular
11. Carpool – See if there is a way to car pool to work. It cuts the gas usage by almost half and it makes the trip to work more fun, not to mention that you can talk about reading the article on My Own Millions blog yesterday with your colleague!