The following Questions and Answers are provided for your benefit. Read through the questions and answers and make use of the information you think is important. Questions and Answers are listed according to their relevance and frequency asked. Check back again soon as we will be adding more of these as time permits. The following information is provided as is without any express or implied warranties. While every effort has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information covered below, the author assumes no responsibility for errors or omissions, or for damages resulting from the use of the information contained on this site. This information is intended for use solely by our clients. Copyright 2007, Garis Motors.
Q: How does proper tire inflation improve gas mileage?
A: If your tires are underinflated you will get less miles per gallon because of increased friction. You should inflate your tires according to tire manufacturer specifications. For every pound of pressure under the recommended number of pounds per square inch you will lose about 2% of your fuel economy. Your tires will also last longer if properly inflated and that is a major savings (tires are expensive).
Q: If I over inflate my tires slightly will I get even better gas mileage?
A: It is not recommended to over inflate your tires because it can be dangerous plus you will wear out your tires prematurely.
Q: If I under inflate my tires slightly will I get a softer ride?
A: Often you will get a softer ride but you will wear tires prematurely and you will get worse gas mileage.
Q: Should I check my tire pressure more often during big changes in air temperature?
A: Yes, for every 10 degree F rise or fall in temperature, your tire pressure rises or falls one pound per square inch. Buy a tire gauge and check tire pressure at least once a month.
Q: How often should I check the air in my spare tire?
A: Check it at least every few months. If you don’t make sure your spare tire is inflated then when you get a flat tire and have no spare you will need a tow instead of just a tire change.
Q: Will I really use less gas if I drive 55 mph?
A: Most cars use around 15% less fuel at 55 mph then they do at 65 mph.
Q: Will replacing my air filter when it is dirty increase my gas mileage?
A: Yes, dirty air filters make a car run poorly and will lower your gas mileage.
Q: Is it true I should turn on the car’s air conditioner in the winter?
A: Yes, you should turn it on briefly every few weeks in the winter and let it run at least 5 minutes to reduce the frequency of repairs.
Q: Do I use less gas if I start my car in the morning and let it warm up before I drive it?
A: No, letting your car idle for more than a minute will use more gas than if you start it and drive it right away. In really cold weather letting it idle for a few minutes can help the cold sluggish oil lubricate everything though. If it is really cold outside let it idle a bit before driving but the rest of the time, don’t let the car idle for any length of time if you want to use less gas.
Q: If I want to get better gas mileage at what speeds is it better to open my car windows to cool the inside of the car?
A: Instead of using the air conditioner, open the car windows to cool off at speeds below 45 mph. Air conditioners increase gas consumption by 7% to 10%.
Q: Why is it better to use the air conditioning at speeds over 45 mph?
A: Today automobiles are so aerodynamic that at speeds higher than 45 mph it is more effective to use the air conditioner. Opening the windows to cool the car would create an enormous amount of drag thereby decreasing gas mileage.
Q: What is the advantage of rotating my tires regularly?
A: Rotating your tires will increase tire life by causing them to wear more evenly.
Q: Is changing my oil regularly really important?
A: Changing your oil regularly is probably the most important (and least expensive) thing you can do to increase engine life. A properly maintained car will save you a lot of money over the life of your vehicle.
Q: What else can I do to get better gas mileage?
A: Empty your trunk and seats of all unnecessary objects (don’t remove your spare tire). All those items in your trunk or in the back of your truck can add up to a significant amount of weight. All that extra weight will decrease your gas mileage.
Q: Are there any other things I can do to increase my gas mileage?
A: Have your car tuned up (spark plug wires and spark plugs changed) when needed. If your car or truck is running erratically on the highway or at idle you will use more gas then if your car is tuned up and running smoothly.
Q: How often should I check my fluid levels?
A: If you have any kind of fluid leaks check fluid levels often. If you have no known fluid leaks check your fluid levels monthly. You can’t rely on the gauges on your dashboard since bulbs designed to light up when fluid levels are low can burn out and are therefore not reliable indicators.
Q: Is there an easy way to remember which side my gas tank is on when I am pulling up to a gas pump?
A: For many cars the answer is yes. Look at your gas gauge and if you see a symbol of a gas pump or a similar symbol take note where it is located. If the symbol is on the left side of the gauge then the tank is probably on the left side of the car. Conversely, if it is on the right then your gas tank is probably on the right. Check this once to see if this applies to your car. If it does then use that as a reminder when deciding which side of the car to park next to the gas pump.
Q: Why shouldn’t I keep a lot of keys on the ring with my ignition key?
A: The weight of the keys plus the weight of the key chain will damage your car’s ignition. The weight of the keys wears out the ignition tumblers and switch causing it to fail prematurely.
Q: On a high mileage vehicle is it better to use a heavier weight oil than what is recommended in the owner’s manual?
A: Each situation is different so call us and we will give you advice based on your particular circumstances. In many cases though a slightly heavier weight oil is better on a high mileage car or truck.
Q: Can over filling my gas tank be harmful?
A: Yes, if you over fill the gas tank (especially on really hot days) the gas will run out of your overflow thus wasting your gas and potentially ruining your paint job.