The price of gas in NM has got Albuquerque motorists talking. It seems that Albuquerque folks who need a bigger vehicle to carry family and gear, or provide four wheel drive, are hit especially. That is why we thought it would be good to review some things that anyone can do to improve gas mileage.

First let’s start with how we drive in the Algodones area. Albuquerque auto owners may not realize that they can really save money on gas by just changing a few driving habits. One of the biggest is jackrabbit starts – you know, flooring the gas as soon as the light turns green. That really wastes a lot of fuel. Building up your speed at a slower pace uses less fuel and is easier on your engine and drive train. And don’t drive with one foot on the brake. That’s also a drag on fuel efficiency, and it wears out your brakes faster too.

Another thing Albuquerque motorists can do is drive slower – but only when it’s safe. Sometimes on the expressway we drive an extra five … ten . . . twenty … over the speed limit. We do it to save time, but it only saves a few minutes out of maybe an hour long drive, and we may use 10 to 15 % more gas. Just leave Albuquerque a little bit earlier, save some bucks and arrive more relaxed.

Albuquerque car owners can also try and combine all of their errands for the day into just one trip, rather than several. If you can put off a trip today that can be combined with one tomorrow – you can save some time and money.

Using your cruise control can save money too. Driving in Algodones at a constant speed really improves fuel economy. Be sure to only use your cruise control in NM under safe conditions – you can look in your owner’s manual for some key good tips on using your cruise control.

Did you know that reducing the weight in your minivan saves gas? Clean out the trunk or back seat from time to time so that you are not paying to carry around a lot of stuff around Algodones you do not need in the car. If you live in NM where there is snow and ice, clear it off your car. They add weight and mess with aerodynamics too.

Another tip is to avoid long idle times, which includes warming it up when you start. Modern engines do not require a long warm up to get going – just take it easy for a couple of miles.

Be sure to get a new gas cap if yours leaks or is worn.

Now, let’s start talking mechanical. Bottom line – the better you maintain your vehicle, the less fuel you will use. It all adds up in a big way. For example, replacing your dirty engine air filter will pay for itself in improved fuel efficiency before your next oil change – and will keep saving you bucks after that.

A clean, well-maintained fuel system really pays big dividends in fuel economy for Albuquerque car owners. A clogged fuel filter wastes gas. So does a dirty fuel system, grimy fuel injectors and plugged up PCV valves. A fuel system service decreases the gas you use, and increases the power – so Albuquerque car owners can’t go wrong with that.

Some of us Albuquerque drivers ignore our Check Engine light. But fixing the problem that caused the light to come on will usually save some fuel as well. It may be a bad oxygen sensor that can really rob your fuel economy.

And, it may be time for a tune-up. Tune-ups should improve your gas mileage. Don’t overlook the vital routine maintenance items, like scheduled oil changes, transmission and cooling system service. Dirty or low fluids actually use more fuel. Just look at your auto maker’a recommended service intervals in the owner’s manual, or ask your Dr J’s Auto Clinic service advisor for the schedule.

Don’t forget your tires. Under-inflated tires waste gas. And if your wheels are out of alignment you won’t get the gas mileage you need.

None of these things are very complicated or expensive for Albuquerque drivers to stay on top of. When you maintain your car properly, you save gas today, and prevent pricey repairs tomorrow.