…and the rest is history

Yeah. $3.93. Like, I was totally bummed. Dude.

Well, I was bummed when it took $47 to fill the Aztek. What really makes me mad is that although I have always taken gas mileage into strong consideration when buying a vehicle (Aztek: 26-28 MPG), there were never really many realistic, fuel efficient options offered by local car lots whenever we were looking for a new(er) car. We would have loved a Prius the last time around, but considering we’d have to drive an hour for service, it seemed silly. And then, there was the fact that they weren’t exactly easy to get used and in my price range.

Since I’m stuck with the vehicles we have for the time being and have no access to public transportation, I guess it’s time to figure out how to save gas in those cars. And, guess what? There are a few ways that can help a little bit. Here we go:

1. Drive 55: Although it doesn’t save me 20-50% MPG, if you’ve got a lead foot, maybe…
2. Pump it up: Keep your tires inflated to the correct level. If you have no idea what that is, try checking for a little tag on the the driver’s side door–usually, the correct pressure is listed there.
3. Maintain: Get your car a tune-up and then keep it properly maintained.
4. Easy on the brake: Try to ease off the gas early and coast a little before a stop. When you start back up, don’t act out your NASCAR fantasies; be gentle on that accelerator.
5. Enjoy the natural air; avoid turning on the air conditioning if you don’t need it.
6. Don’t let your car idle while you’re waiting to pick up the kids–it’s not worth it.
7. Combine trips. Make lists and plan your trips; don’t run out to the grocery store in the morning, then out to Target later in the day. Make a plan of attack, saving time and gas all at once!

And apparently, that tip you might have seen somewhere about buying gas at the coolest time of day? Don’t sweat it if you can’t.

All right–I’m off to make mudpies with the son; it’s free!