Save Fuel: 10 Ways to Cut Your Car's Fuel Consumption

Has your fuel consumption gone up? Here is what to check to fix the problem.

1. Replace the air filter. The amount of air reaching the engine, and therefore the air-fuel mixture, depends on how clean it is.

2. Use a synthetic or semi-synthetic oil. Its viscosity stays fairly constant regardless of temperature, which also helps save fuel.

3. Remember the saying, "slow and steady wins the race." There is real wisdom in it. Try to stay within the speed limit, and you will be pleased with the drop in fuel consumption.

4. Tire pressure. It affects the size of the contact patch between the tire and the road, so check your tire pressure regularly, before you start driving.

5. Avoid hard acceleration and hard braking, and try not to drive in a high gear at low speed.

6. Drive at a steady pace. Components and assemblies wear less, and fuel consumption drops accordingly.

7. Think before you turn on the air conditioner. Using it can increase fuel consumption by up to 20%.

8. If you modify your car, don't forget about aerodynamics. Wide wheels, fender flares, and add-on spoilers or wings hurt aerodynamics and increase fuel consumption.

9. Don't carry a pile of unnecessary stuff around. Every extra kilogram (2.2 lb) of weight increases fuel consumption and dulls performance. Take the roof rack off if you aren't using it.

10. Most important of all, try to drive less. Use the car only when it is truly necessary, and replace some trips with walking or cycling.