Rising gas prices are a serious source of worry for many people. While it may seem like there is nothing you can do to combat fuel increases, don't despair. By taking proper care of your car, you can help to keep your gas costs as low as possible. This article will discuss three effective strategies for maximizing your automobile's fuel economy.

Keep your tires inflated to the right pressure

It's hard for many people to wrap their minds around the correlation between tire pressure and gas mileage. Yet the two are inextricably intertwined. To understand why, it helps to visualize the interaction between your tire and the roadway. The greater the internal pressure of a tire, the less of its outer surface is in contact with the road, which is why overinflated tires tend to produce a harsher ride, with every bump and jolt being communicated upwards through the relatively small surface area. An underinflated tire, on the other hand, does a much better job of absorbing shocks from the road. That's because a much greater amount of its surface is being pressed down against the pavement.

Unfortunately, an underinflated tire also has the effect of driving up your gas consumption. That's because the increased surface area exposed to the road increases the amount of friction produced by the tire. To overcome that friction, your car has to work much harder--and consume for gasoline. For the best compromise between comfort and economy, try to always keep your tires inflated to the pressure rating listed on their outer sidewall.

Have your oil changed regularly

Unnecessary friction within the engine can have just as devastating an effect on your fuel efficiency. Should your oil become excessively dirty or old, sludge and contaminants will decrease its ability to allow your pistons to move up and down smoothly. Even a small increase in engine friction can have a significant effect on the amount of gasoline it takes to get from one place to another. Having your oil changed on a regular basis is therefore an easy and effective way to maximize your gasoline economy.

Be mindful of your driving habits

It can be easy to get a little carried away behind the wheel, especially when you're in a rush. Yet speeding and other forms of aggressive driving will ultimately cost you more at the pump. In fact, highway gas mileage may increase as much as 33 percent as the result of driving at excessive speeds. In other words, observing posted speed limits will not only keep you in good standing with the law, it will help to keep your gasoline expenditures as low as possible.

If your car isn't getting great gas mileage and you think it's time to buy something new, contact a dealer like Milton Ruben Toyota.