High gas prices? How’d the heck that happen?
AP: Gas Prices, Oil Rise to New Records
Gas prices at the pumps are officially the highest they’ve ever been in North America, even higher than during the oil crisis of the 1970s when adjusted for inflation. Yet for many, the concept of higher gas prices seems to be coming as a cold shock. Complaints abound, along with accusations of price fixing, and complicated websites have popped up to share information about where the cheapest gas can be purchased. These efforts are akin to rearranging the furniture on the deck of the sinking Titanic. The reality is that many have seen these prices coming for decades, the prices will only continue to rise, and despite lots of warning we’ve done almost nothing to prepare for it.
The only proper solution is to reduce our reliance on oil, which means driving less and making the necessary changes to our lifestyles, cities, suburbs and transit systems in order to facilitate this. Yet even last year, truck and SUV sales rose, and suburban sprawl continued right up until the Great Mortgage Collapse. It seems we don’t learn any lessons until we are absolutely forced to; and by then, they could be some very harsh lessons indeed. High oil prices filter through almost every area of our economy, hurting every single one of us — even those of us who don’t drive.
When did all this happen? Probably when you were watching American Idol and laughing at Britney Spears.
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Using these simple tips I have been able to go from 25mpg on my 2003 Saturn Vue SUV to 30-32mpg over the last few months.
1. Change your air filter.
2. Check for gas tank leaks.
3. Use the correct seasonal tires.
4. Inflate your tires properly (usually 35psi).
5. Clear out your trunk.
6. Fill up when it is cool outside.
7. Drive a light-colored car.
8. Park in the shade.
9. Don’t top off your gas – it will spill.
10. Tighten your gas cap.
11. Use correct fuel grade for your car – check the owner’s manual.
12. Limit air conditioner use.
13. Roll up windows on the freeway.
14. Avoid roof hauls.
15. Don’t idle in the morning.
16. Turn off air conditioner, radio, and other electronics when you start your car/truck.
17. Plan your route away from traffic jams and construction.
18. Go the speed limit – driving at 70mph uses 20% more gas than 55mph.
19. Drive evenly on the gas pedal.
20. Avoid sudden stops.
21. Avoid idling while driving – 1 hour of idling will burn a gallon of gas.
22. Only use the right foot on the pedals.
23. Don’t weave in and out of traffic.
24. Accelerate before you go up a hill instead of on it.
25. Check local gas stations for discount days.
26. Fill up 3 days before holidays.
27. Fill up on near empty.
28. Look for member benefits – usually offer $0.03 off per gallon or more.
29. Look for credit card discounts.
30. Use public transportation whenever possible.
SOURCES:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MlF1GJFLSI
http://www.62tipstosavegas.com