How To Maximize Fuel Economy

With the surge in fuel prices we are all experiencing, we wanted to provide each of you with tools to make decisions on where we refuel and tips on how to maximize fuel efficiency.  Fuel prices have risen considerably and we can all contribute to savings at the pump.  Just 1-year ago, our monthly fuel spend was approximately $ 7,500 per month and with today’s pricing we will be looking at $15,000 per month.  Anything we can do will certainly add up.

We have several tools at our disposal, such as the GasBuddy app, which can help us identify the best fuel prices in our areas. As of 6/8/2022, areas such as Kingston Springs and Fairview provide the best value while areas such as Franklin, Brentwood, and Lascassas are the highest cost. GasBuddy provides listings of consumer reported pricing so it’s continually updated and provides incredible insight on where the best places to refuel are at any given time.  Please utilize these resources and plan accordingly for refueling needs.

If you don’t currently have the app, it can be found here: GasBuddy

The easiest and most effective way to improve fuel economy is to modify our driving habits, such as:

• Drive conservatively.  Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking, which can lower fuel economy by 15-30% at highway speeds and 10-40% in stop-and-go traffic.
• Observe speed limits.  Fuel economy peaks at around 50 mph on most vehicles, and decreases as speeds increase.  Reducing highway speeds by 5-10mph can increase fuel economy by 7 to 14%.
• Avoid excess idling.  Car engines consume 1/4 to 1/2 gallon per hour when idling.  Where safe to do so, shut off your engine if you will be stopped for more than 5 minutes.
• Plan your trips.  Route travel to minimize backtracking.

We can also ensure our vehicles are best equipped to be as efficient as possible by practicing the following:

• Remove unnecessary items from vehicle.  An extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel economy by up to 1%.
• Check tires for proper inflation. Underinflated tires have increased rolling resistance that reduces fuel economy.  We have air tanks and pressure gauges available at the shop for use.
• When able, avoid usage of the overhead ladder rack.  Items transported on top of the vehicle significantly increases aerodynamic drag, which reduces fuel economy.

More Information can be found at fueleconomy.gov