Is the high price of gasoline taking a big bite out of your budget? Here are some steps you can take to get the better gas mileage.

Drive More Efficiently

• Observe the speed limit. Gas mileage decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. The EPA estimates you can improve your fuel efficiency by 10-15 percent by driving 55 mph instead of 65 mph.
• Stop aggressive driving—speeding and rapid acceleration and braking wastes gas. The largest fuel waste occurs with aggressive driving.
• Accelerate smoothly and brake gradually.
• Maintain a steady speed whenever possible.
• Avoid unnecessary idling. Turn off your engine when you have to idle more than 30 seconds.
• Combine errands.
• When commuting, car pool. Stagger your work hours, if possible, to drive during off peak times and avoid sitting in traffic.
• Use cruise control and overdrive gears when appropriate.
• Remove excess weight from your vehicle. Avoid keeping unnecessary items in your trunk.
• Avoid packing items on the top of your vehicle.
• Minimize your use of air-conditioning.

Keep Your Car in Good Running Condition

• Keep your engine tuned up.
• Check and replace air filters regularly
• Keep you tires properly inflated and aligned.
• Change your oil regularly and use the grade of oil recommended for your car.

Choose a More Fuel-Efficient Vehicle
For information on teh fuel efficacy for 1985-2005 model-year cars, visit www.fueleconomy.gov.

For short distances, consider walking or bicycling.

Sources: U.S. Dept. of Energy, www.fueleconomy.gov. “Good, Better, Best: How to Improve Gas Mileage,” Federal Trade Commission Consumer Alert, www.ftc.gov. “ECOdriving Helps Fight High Gas Prices,” Ford Motor Company, www.ford.com.