How to Improve Your Gas Mileage During the Summer

Simple Tips to Save Money at the Pump in Missouri

Summer means vacations, road trips, and more time on the road—but it can also mean spending more money on gas. Between hot temperatures, increased use of air conditioning, and heavier traffic, your vehicle may not be getting the fuel economy you're used to.

The good news? A few simple habits can help you improve your gas mileage and keep more money in your wallet this summer.

Here are some easy ways to maximize fuel efficiency while driving around St. Louis, St. Charles, and throughout Missouri.

1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Check your tire pressure at least once a month, especially during the summer when temperatures can change tire pressure quickly.

Pro Tip: Use the recommended PSI listed on the driver's side door jamb—not the maximum PSI listed on the tire.

2. Remove Extra Weight

The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it uses.

Take a look inside your trunk and remove unnecessary items like:

Old sports equipment
Heavy toolboxes
Unused cargo
Winter supplies you no longer need

Even small reductions in weight can improve fuel efficiency over time.

3. Avoid Aggressive Driving

Rapid acceleration and hard braking can significantly reduce your fuel economy.

Instead:

Accelerate gradually
Maintain a steady speed
Anticipate stops
Coast whenever it's safe

Smooth driving can improve gas mileage while reducing wear on your brakes and tires.

4. Use Your Air Conditioning Wisely

Missouri summers can be hot, and your air conditioner works hard to keep you comfortable. While A/C does use extra fuel, driving with the windows down at highway speeds creates aerodynamic drag that can reduce fuel economy even more.

Best practice:

Around town, opening the windows may help.
On the highway, it's often more fuel-efficient to keep the windows up and use the air conditioning moderately.

5. Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently.

Stay current with:

Oil changes
Engine air filter replacements
Spark plugs (when recommended)
Tire rotations
Wheel alignments

Routine maintenance not only improves fuel economy but can also extend the life of your vehicle.

6. Avoid Long Periods of Idling

Letting your car idle while waiting for someone or sitting in a parking lot burns fuel without getting you anywhere.

If you'll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turning the engine off can help save fuel—especially during the summer months.

7. Plan Your Trips

Running several errands in one trip is more fuel-efficient than making multiple short trips throughout the day.

A warm engine operates more efficiently, so combining destinations can reduce overall fuel consumption.

8. Use Cruise Control on the Highway

When driving on longer trips, cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed.

Constant speed changes use more fuel than steady driving, making cruise control a great option on open highways.

9. Replace Dirty Air Filters

A clogged engine air filter can reduce engine performance and efficiency.

Replacing a dirty air filter is an inexpensive maintenance item that may help your engine perform at its best.

10. Drive the Speed Limit

Fuel economy typically decreases as speed increases.

Many vehicles achieve their best highway fuel efficiency between 55 and 65 mph. Driving significantly faster increases wind resistance and fuel consumption.

Staying within the speed limit helps improve both safety and gas mileage.

Small Changes Can Lead to Big Savings

Improving your fuel economy doesn't require major repairs. Simple habits like checking tire pressure, driving smoothly, keeping up with maintenance, and reducing unnecessary weight can make a noticeable difference over time.

If your current vehicle is still costing you too much at the gas pump, it may be time to consider an upgrade. Newer vehicles often offer improved fuel efficiency, modern technology, and lower maintenance costs.

At 5 Star Auto Plaza, we offer a wide selection of quality used cars, pre-owned vehicles, fuel-efficient sedans, SUVs, and pickup trucks for sale to fit a variety of lifestyles and budgets. Whether you're looking for cars under $20K, cars under $30K, or vehicles with affordable car payments, we're here to help.

We also provide flexible car financing options, including used car financing, low down payment cars, guaranteed car financing, second chance auto financing, and no credit car financing. If you've been searching for used cars near me, vehicle financing near me, auto financing near me, or a trusted finance car dealership, visit 5 Star Auto Plaza and let us help you find a vehicle that's easier on your wallet all summer long.

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