With Reno gas prices being what they are, many of us in NV are driving less and looking into purchasing smaller or more efficient vehicles. Reno area residents who have to drive a lot, have large families or need four-wheel drive are particularly hard hit by the cost of fuel in NV. However, there are things every Reno driver can do to save fuel: Improve our driving habits and stay on top of preventive maintenance at Wayne’s Automotive Center! These things make small savings possible and can really add up.

Let’s start with driving habits. One major gas-eater is jackrabbit starts. A smooth, gradual acceleration uses a lot less fuel. It’s also easier on your engine and drivetrain, so you’ll prolong their lives as well.

If you drive with one foot on the brake, stop. That creates drag, increasing fuel usage and reducing the useful life of your brakes.

Slowing down can really add up on gas savings over time for Reno drivers. Driving five to ten miles over the speed limit can use up 10 to 15% more gas. The time savings is only a few minutes per hour, so the cost per minute can be rather steep.

A little extra planning can save fuel for vehicle owners in Reno as well. Leave a little early so you have time to slow down and still arrive on time. Also, plan errands ahead of time and group them as much as possible. Driving shorter distances is a great way to save fuel.

Using your cruise control where safe can save on fuel. Check your owner’s manual for guidelines on when cruise control is recommended and when it isn’t.

Clean out your trunk. Every ounce in your vehicle translates to a bit more fuel required to drive around Reno.

Many Reno residents let their car warm up during the winter – a major fuel drain. Your engine doesn’t benefit; modern engines don’t require a warm up to get up and running, although it’s best to take it easy on them for the first few miles.

Now that we’ve gone over a few tips for improving driving habits, let’s talk about the maintenance of our vehicle. Good car care at Wayne’s Automotive Center in Reno actually pays for itself in fuel savings.

First, if your gas cap is leaking or worn, get a new one.

Second, keep your engine clean. Clogged fuel filters, dirty fuel injectors and plugged PCV valves all cost you in loss of fuel. Replacing common engine components when needed or cleaning them regularly will improve both your fuel economy and increase the power output you’re getting from your engine.

Third, don’t ignore your Check Engine light. Problems that cause that light to come on usually affect your fuel efficiency.

Fourth, check your ‘s owner’s manual for service that should be regularly performed on your vehicle, and follow the schedule. Or talk to your friendly service advisor at Wayne’s Automotive Center. Oil changes, transmission checks and cooling system service all improve fuel economy if they’re done when needed. Low or dirty fluids also create conditions in your vehicle that require more fuel to run properly, therefore making routine maintenance a must to maintain fuel economy, save cash and extend the life of your vehicle.

Last, keep your tires inflated. Underinflated tires increase your vehicle’s friction with the roadway, which increases the energy it takes to move. Keeping your tires properly inflated is great for saving gas as you drive around Reno.

So if the cost of gas in Reno has got you searching the sofa for extra pennies, you might want to start making a few changes in your driving habits and getting your vehicle the service it needs at Wayne’s Automotive Center in Reno.