Looking for ways to save at the pump? What most people don't realize is that improving your vehicle's fuel efficiency goes hand in hand with wise car care practices.
At Freehold Dodge, we want our local drivers in Freehold, Farmingdale, and Monroe Township to get the most out of their Dodge's vehicle performance. We've compiled this list of tips to improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Zeroing in on just a few of these behaviors will have you surprised at just how efficient your car really can be.
Modify Your Driving Style
The way you handle your vehicle may be more conducive to gas guzzling. Fuel-efficient driving relies on maneuvers that use less gas and puts less stress on your vehicle as a whole. A simple way to practice more efficient driving is to drive within the designated speed limit, which is safer too!
Avoid slamming on the brakes if you can, and vary the time you spend applying gas vs. letting the momentum you already have move the car along. Coasting and intermediately applying brakes gently while approaching a red light is one way to stretch miles per gallon.
Avoid Idling
Leaving the engine running while in park can waste gas without getting you anywhere (quite literally). If you know you'll be stationed in the same spot for more than a minute or two, turn off your vehicle.
Windows Up on the Highway
There's probably nothing more you want to do than power down the windows in your Durango on a nice day, but especially at highway speeds, letting air in can cause major drag. This makes your vehicle work harder to travel the same distance, ultimately bringing down your average mpg.
Limit AC Use in the Summer
Excessive use of your air conditioning can significantly deplete fuel efficiency as well. Try to use AC sparingly and be mindful to have windows up while the AC is running to avoid the drag double whammy.
Lighten Up on Cargo
Notice a difference in the mileage you got on vacation when the trunk was loaded up with heavy suitcases and outdoor equipment? The more weight in your vehicle, the more suppressed your fuel efficiency will be. Get rid of any unnecessary cargo you're toting that could hurt your mileage numbers.
Stick to a Routine Maintenance Schedule
Being behind on regular vehicle maintenance can make your engine work harder when it doesn't need to, thus diminishing fuel economy. Make sure that you stay up-to-date with all of your essential auto care appointments, including oil and filter changes, tire rotations, and brake checks.
Monitor Tire Pressure
Driving a vehicle with underinflated tires can significantly reduce overall fuel efficiency and performance. If your Dodge is equipped with a tire pressure monitoring system, you have an ally in making that sure your tires are inflated to the manufacturer-recommended pressure. If you don't have this system installed, be sure to check tire pressure once a month when the tires are cool.
Improving your Dodge's fuel efficiency is as simple as being a little more mindful each time you buckle up. This keeps you safer on the road and keeps more money in your pocket.
To learn more about techniques to heighten fuel economy, contact Freehold Dodge's service center. Scheduling a maintenance appointment means you're that much closer to better fuel numbers!
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