Easy ways to save money on monthly fuel bill

Everyone feels the pain of high gas prices, especially if you commute or drive for a living. Are there simple ways to save some money at the pump?

Absolutely, says Dr. David Greene of the National Center for Transportation Research, a federal agency operating out of the Oak Ridge National Laboratory.

Sometimes the most obvious gas-saving tips are easiest to overlook. According to Greene, the goal is reducing friction among moving parts–especially tires and engine parts.

Keeping your tires properly inflated and using the correct grade of motor oil can shave up to 3% off your monthly gas bill.

“The less [energy] that goes to friction, the more that the gasoline goes to moving the car down the road,” Greene said. “Check your tire inflation and change your oil. Make sure that they are correct.”

Tires constantly change shape as they connect with the road – especially if they are underinflated. Friction increases as more of the tire makes contact with the road surface.

“That friction actually slows down the vehicle,” Greene said.

Tires lose air gradually, but warm weather will increase that loss. A properly inflated tire also prevents riding on the sidewall–a serious problem that could cause permanent damage or blowout.

“Keep the tire inflated to the recommended pressure for safety reasons and not [inflated] below for fuel economy reasons,” Greene said.

Inside the engine, choosing the right grade of oil helps lubricate the many moving parts, reducing friction and increasing gas savings. Additives and synthetic blends may also help reduce friction and increase gas savings.

Today's vehicles often require a specific type of oil, especially high performance vehicles. With so many choices how can drivers make the right choice?

“Choose an oil that lubricates those parts well so that they don’t wear out,” Greene said. “Sticking to the recommended type of oil is the best protection for the engine and will produce the least amount of friction.”

How you drive and where you live influence your choice of oil grade. For instance, drivers who log a lot of city miles in hot climates may need motor oil that handles high temperatures.

Greene offered the following vehicle maintenance tips:

-Inflate tires to the recommended pressure for safety and savings. Refer to your owner’s manual for proper inflation amounts.

-Lubricate moving parts in the engine to reduce friction and extend the life of the parts.

-Choose the motor oil grade recommended for your vehicle and climate. Warmer temperatures usually require a thicker oil to keep the vehicle running properly. Refer to your owner’s manual for recommended oil grades for warm weather driving.

-Consider synthetic oil over petroleum-based for additional savings. Synthetic oil lasts longer than petroleum-based.

Greene suggested a regular vehicle check-up, especially if your vehicle is running rougher than usual.