A variety of products claim to help increase fuel efficiency. The Federal Trade Commission has tested a number of products and has determined that few offered fuel economy benefits. Instead, the commission offers tips that actually work in helping to improve fuel efficiency, which leads to savings at the pump.
Obeying the speed limit is not only the law, it can save you some money in the long run. According to the Federal Trade Commission, the faster you drive, the more fuel you burn. According to the FCC, going as little as 10 mph over the speed limit can increase your fuel consumption by as much as 20 percent. Obeying the speed limit can help increase fuel efficiency, resulting to fewer trips to the pump.
The FCC recommends using your car's cruise control when driving on highways or freeways. Setting your speed to cruise control decreases accelerations, which can lead to improved gasoline use. Preventing accelerations and maintaining an even speed can result in less fuel being burned.
An additional tip offered by the Federal Trade Commission is to reduce unnecessary weight in your vehicle. Carrying around items such as sports gear, luggage and tools puts additional strain on your vehicle, causing it to use more gas. Removing these items from the car whenever they are not necessary will help to reduce the weight of your vehicle and result in increased fuel efficiency.
According to the Federal Trade Commission's website, a poorly tuned engine can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10 percent to 20 percent, depending on the age and condition of the car. By following the recommendations in your owners manual as they relate to recommended tune-ups, your vehicle will not only obtain greater fuel efficiency, it will last longer and require fewer repairs.
