Gas prices have been trending downwards recently, but that doesn't mean drivers should simply ignore this important factor when planning out their summer road trips. Gadling recently posted some fuel-saving tips that can help drivers save money on their summer road trips.
The top two tips for improving gas mileage were both maintenance-related. Getting a tune-up can increase your gas mileage by an average of four percent - so that tune-up will likely pay for itself in the long run. And if you find a problem like a faulty oxygen sensor, you can save more than 40 percent on your gas.
Another maintenance area that the blog recommended drivers pay attention to is their tires. Keeping tires properly inflated can improve gas mileage by approximately 3.3 percent, so you might want to buy tires before you hit the road.
Other tips that can help improve gas mileage are related to the way you drive. Overloading the car with excess weight can have a negative impact on your gas mileage, as can driving at an excessive speed (try to keep it around 60 miles per hour). In addition, sticking to the highways and avoiding idling can also help ensure you don't spend a fortune on gas.