More Gas Savings Strategies

Still feeling the pinch at the pump? Here are more gas savings strategies to help:

Walk/bike- A lot of people have adopted carpooling as a way to combat the high fuel prices, but that still requires gas. If you live close enough to work, try walking or biking instead. You’ll burn calories instead of gas, and avoid a trip to the gym. Plus, you’re likely to feel more relaxed after taking a leisurely, no-sitting-in-traffic approach to getting to and from work.

If your commute is too long to make walking/biking feasible, see if you can make it work for running errands around town.

Note: Some cities have started to offer financial rewards to those who commute by foot or bike. Check to see if your city is one of these. Also be on the lookout for federal legislation designed to reward car-less commuters.

Oxygen sensors- You’ve heard all the talk about how changing your oil regularly and keeping up with tune ups can help you to save money at the pump, but have you heard about the importance of changing your oxygen sensors? These sensors help the engine to run as efficiently as possible and also reduce emissions. Located on the exhaust pipes, these sensors may need to be replaced as early as 15,000 miles.

Oxygen sensors can be tested to see if they are working, so have yours checked and replace them as needed. A recent Auto Zone advertisement estimated the gas savings after replacement to be up to $150 a year—no small amount indeed.

Discount gas days- Many gas chains, particularly those run by grocery stores, offer discount gas days. Typical offers include the same price for all grades of gas or a certain number of cents off on every gallon. Plan your gas needs around these discounts, and you’ll at least save money on the gas that you do need.

Have other gas savings ideas? Share them on our "Gas Pump Savings" thread.

 

-Erin Huffstetler

  Erin Huffstetler is a freelance writer specializing in frugal living tips and tricks. Her work has appeared in numerous print and electronic publications including Family Circle, Guideposts For Kids and Pregnancy. As the stay-at-home mom of two young kids, Erin is always looking for new ways to live better for less. For fun decorating and craft project ideas check out Erin's "Trash to Treasures" and "Bead Making Basics" courses at Suite101.com.