Saving at the Pump

ZANESVILLE, Ohio – With gas prices a dollar more per gallon than when the year started, drivers are feeling the pinch in their pockets. 

CB Services Owner Caleb Baker, who performs fleet maintenance and emergency road service on commercial vehicles shares some techniques that can help drivers improve their fuel economy and save dollars at the pump. 

“The biggest single thing is going to be maintenance and… well, I guess it’s two things, but maintenance and driving habits,” Baker said. “Make sure you’ve got your oil changed using the manufacturer’s recommended oil grade and type. Making sure your air in your tires is where it needs to be. Making sure your air filter’s changed out. Spark plugs and things are changed at the manufacturers recommendations.”

Ignoring check engine lights can lead to not only bigger expenses but can also lead to your vehicle not performing to the manufacturers performance standards. Excessive idling, which is when your engine is running and your vehicle is not moving can make a noticeable reduction in your miles per gallon.

“Beyond that, driving habits, you want a slow, steady acceleration, not a jack-rabbit start. Smooth, slow braking when possible, so that you’re not you know coming to an abrupt stop. Consistent speed, you want to you know stay as smooth as possible. No on and off the gas constantly,” Baker said.

Keeping unnecessary items in your vehicle adds weight, which takes more fuel to start and keep your vehicle rolling. These are just a few tips that when added together could pay for the beverage or snack you purchase at your next fuel stop.