When thinking about ourselves as egalitarian agents ofenvironmental and climate change, it is too easy to think that your automotive needs take precedence over everyone else's. While you may think you have a special case to drive around in your huge SUV to make the 45-minute commute to work, everyone else on the road feels the same way.
Most bloggers suggest that you add carpooling or public transportation to your commute to save money on gas and help the environment. While that is the most altruistic advice, there is little chance you will be willing to give up your freedom of the road. Here are some ways you can start conserving gas and saving money on your commute:
Use the right gas. A lot of people think that high-octane gas is better than lower-octane gas because the higher stuff is labeled "premium." Premium is better than regular, right? In reality, octane simply refers to how much the fuel can be compressed before it combusts. High octane means it can be compressed more. Only buy the expensive stuff if your car requires it.
Combine trips. One of the most draining things your car does to the gas tank is start up in the morning. By taking the time to get all of the mechanical, electronic, and automatic systems heated and up to speed, your car is not optimizing its fuel use. Instead of stopping at home, make an itinerary before runnning errands. Visit the bank to get cash, Target to buy laundry detergent, then the grocery store last to avoid spoiled food.
Cash-back credit cards. If you are going to drive yourself to work, buck up and face the reality that a portion of your paycheck will go to the gas station. Many large stations offer their own credit cards for exclusive use at their stations. Big banks also offer their own lines of credit for cash back at the pump and even allow you to use their services no matter which station you choose.
Lose the extra baggage. A couple of lawn chairs, a cooler, and a wet blanket from the Jimmy Buffetconcert are still taking up space in your trunk. It's December and you saw him in late July. Whether you likeJimmy Buffet or not, there are probably some unused items clogging up space in your trunk and backseat. Simple physics states that the heavier an object is, the more energy it will take to move it. Clean out your vehicle and save money on gas.
Change your oil. Most people don't consider their oil to play a major factor in fuel conservation. By choosing the correct blend according to your vehicle's owner manual, you can add substance-removing additives to your engine, increase lubrication performance, and reduce the amount of gas you need.
