Can anybody remember the good old days when we could buy gas for less than a buck?

Back in roaring 90's we could drive around in our SUVs at little expense. Heck back then I could fill up my 20 gallon tank for less than twenty bucks if I knew where to get cheap gas. It seemed that naive the OPEC and economic recession could help drive you fuel costs $2.00 a gallon. A few years later a war in the Middle East along with hurricane lead gas prices briefly over $3.00 a gallon. Sadly the golden days of low gas prices have come and gone. If you're a smart consumer you do more than just live in hope for gas prices to drop; you need to consider your vehicles fuel efficiency.

The Energy Information Administration estimates that the United States consumes over 20 million barrels (840 millin gallons) of petroleum products each day, almost half of it in the form of gasoline used in over 200 million motor vehicles with combined travel over 7 billion miles per day. A fluctuation in gas costs of even a few cents could cost American consumers millions of dollars

Here are 4 suggestions of where you can lower your gas costs:

1. Your Car

Whether you drive a used SUV or brand new compact economy car your auto maintenance will have an influence on your fuel costs. If you want to maximize your vehicles ability to utilize fuel I would recommend the following:

Get those regular tune-ups

This sounds like common sense for most folks but some people wait a little too long to get that much needed oil change. The EPA predicts that fixed a faulty oxygen can save you up to 40% in fuel cost.

Replace your air filters

They're inexpensive and easy to replace. The EPA estimates that keeping your air filters fresh could save you up to 10% on fuel.

Keep your tires properly inflated

Under inflated tires can lower your gas mileage by up to 3%. They also cause your tires to wear out quicker. You should check your tires PSI at least once a month.


2. Your Commute

A shortcut on the road might short change your fuel economy plan if you're not careful. Your fuel economy can be influenced by multiple variables

Avoid the stop and go

Getting caught in the morning and afternoon rush hour does more than just give you headache. It causes your vehicle to consume more fuel since your spending more time idling in traffic. If possible try avoiding the rush hour by either leaving earlier or later (if the boss is okay with it). Also try to stay on the highways were you will experience fewer stop and goes. The quality of road can influence your cars fuel economy. The EPA also recommends using cruise control and overdrive gears when possible.

Unnecessary Objects

Some people consider their cars as an extension of their rooms. Heavy objects can increase the drag on your vehicle decreasing your fuel economy. If you are on road trip it is recommended that you put objects (such as skis) inside your vehicle to reduce aerodynamic drag if possible.


3. Your Lead Foot

Driving like you're in the grand prix and trying to save money on fuel is like going in two directions at once. In fact the EPA predicts that driving at speeds at an access of 60 mph increases aerodynamic drag and can drastically reduce fuel economy. You also increase your risk of getting in an accident or getting a very expensive speeding ticket. Slow down!


4. Your Gas Station

It can be tempting at times to give in and purchase gas from that nice convenient looking gas station. Its modern look and feel can lull you into spending a couple extra dollars. If you are like most folks you are probably filling up at least once if not twice a week. Those few extra dollars can really add up.