Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro on 5 Tips for Better Fuel Economy

There is not a driver on the road that doesn’t hate spending so much money on gas.  

The Columbia, SC Auto Repair Pro has five tips to save gas and get better gas mileage.

Tip 1: Air Filter

A dirty air filter restricts air flow from going into the engine.  This will have an effect on the vehicle performance and fuel economy.  Some air filters can be cleaned, but some are made of paper and have to be replaced.  Click here for instructions on how to change an air filter.

Tip 2: Clean it Out

You do not realize how much extra and unnecessary weight you may be carrying around in your car.  We tend to spend so much time in our vehicles that we often fill them with things we really do not need.  Unload all that stuff you have tucked here and there and give the trunk a good cleaning too.  Keep only what you really need to have and the lighter load will help your auto use less gas.

Tip 3: Keep Tires in Check

When your tires do not have enough air there is more rolling resistance.  This means you burn extra fuel just to keep moving!  Check your tires when they are cooled.  Checking warm tires may cause inaccurate readings as warmed air within the tire creates increased pressure.  If you will take the time to regularly check your tires to ensure they are at the manufacturer’s recommended specifications, you will cut down on rolling resistance and your gas expenses.

Tip 4: Stock Tires vs. Performance

New performance wheels and tires can create visual appeal and offer improved handling, but they could be costing you gas too.  If you are riding on tires that are wider than the stock tires, you have increased your rolling resistance.  If you don’t want to go back to your stock tires, at least keep them handy for longer trips.  The narrower tread offers a smoother ride and helps increase your fuel economy.

Tip 5: Slow Your Roll

When you drive like you’re in a race car, you’re not only increasing your odds of having an accident, but hurting your gas mileage as well.  Even slowing it down to going no faster than the posted speed limit can help improve your fuel economy. 

As a professional mechanic, I know how to keep a car running its best.  Bad gas mileage is a big complaint for many drivers.  Following my five tips increases your fuel economy and saves you cash.

For more auto repair tutorials, mechanic tips, and automotive information from the Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro be sure to check out the Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro Blog.  You can even schedule an auto repair in Columbia, SC by calling 803-735-7902.  Sanford’s Automotive Service - proudly serving the Columbia area since 1989. 

Auto Repair Safety Advice with Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro

Performing a number of auto repairs yourself can save you money, but only if you make sure you’re doing it right.   

Many automotive repairs and maintenance tasks can be fixed or repaired by anyone willing to properly research and follow instructions exactly.  There are also many safety aspects that should be remembered.

This information offers advice in steering clear of home auto repair dangers.  Some appear to be common sense, but still are worthy of your attention.

NEVER start on a repair that you do not feel completely comfortable taking on. If you are unsure about the repair, always find a profession mechanic to complete the job. You are better off paying a professional than attempting to repair alone and ultimately creating a bigger problem or, even worse, more damage. Many automotive systems are extremely complex. Repairs sometimes call for considerable skill and expertise, as well as special tools and equipment. A simple mistake can result in damaging expensive electronic components.

Another factor to consider is physical limitations. Replacing or repairing certain components may require heavy lifting, crawling beneath a vehicle, laying or working in uncomfortable, awkward positions, not to mention all of the reaching, pulling, bending, twisting, straining and multiple strenuous activities a body may not be accustomed to.  Use your common sense concerning these things.

Auto repairs need your complete and full attention. DO NOT attempt to perform ANY auto maintenance or auto repair if you are tired, feeling bad, even a little intoxicated, taking any medication or anything which may otherwise impair your motor skills or concentration in any way. 

Other Tips to Keep in Mind

 

• NEVER smoke or create any type of spark while working on ANY fuel system components. This means your fuel filter, fuel pump, carburetor, fuel injectors, and gas tank or fuel lines.

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• Have a fire extinguisher handy for any unexpected accidents. Be sure that the fire extinguisher has a "B" (for use with liquids & grease fires) and "C" (for use in electrical fires) rating.

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• NEVER smoke or allow sparks anyplace near the car battery! This battery contains hydrogen gas that is very volatile. If jump starting, always make the final jumper connection to the engine or chassis. Sparks in the vicinity of the car battery may cause an explosion!

Be sure to check back often for more from the Columbia SC Auto Repair Pro. Sanford’s Automotive Service wants to keep every driver informed, up to date, and SAFELY navigating the road!