5 easy ways to boost your fuel efficiency

Are you sick of shelling out at the pump every time you have to fill your tank, but not ready to trade your current ride in for something more efficient? We get it - gas isn't cheap, but you have to buy it in order to get where you need to go. Toyota of N Charlotte is here to help - we've got five simple tips to boost your fuel efficiency without having to buy a new ride. Read on!

5 fuel efficiency tips from Toyota of N Charlotte 

Tip #1: Keep up with tire care. 
Did you know that your car tires can actually affect your fuel efficiency? It's true - underinflated tires can drastically reduce fuel efficiency and jack up your fuel costs. Keep your tires inflated to the right PSI. You can find this number in your owner's manual and also on a sticker on the driver's side doorjamb. (Or you can ask our Charlotte Toyota service techs what the number should be.) Don't forget to routinely check your tires' PSI - every week to two weeks is a safe bet.

Tip #2: Empty out your ride on a regular basis. 
Are you guilty of carrying way too much stuff around in your car? Break the habit with this knowledge - the more stuff you have in your car, the less fuel efficiency you'll get. Empty out the trunk and backseat and make your ride lighter; your bank account will thank you next time you fill up.

Tip #3: Adjust your driving habits. 
If you have a lead foot when you're behind the wheel, it's time to adjust your driving habits. Fast acceleration can waste fuel. Instead of slamming on the gas, accelerate at a slower rate to get where you need to go and avoid stop-and-go driving if you can help it.

Tip #4: Don't idle your car if you can help it. 
Idling your car keeps you comfortable when it's hot or cold out, but it also wastes fuel. Did you know that idling for 10 minutes can use up to 22 oz. of fuel? It may not seem like much, but over time it can add up. Turn your car off whenever possible and restart it when it's time to hit the road.

Tip #5: Plan your route and use your available tools. 
Before you leave the house, plan your route! What may seem like the most efficient route could actually be inefficient if there's bad traffic. Plan your route according to traffic and weather and look for the most efficient way to get where you need to go. Additionally, use cruise control when it's appropriate! (You should only use it in good weather on the highway when there's no traffic.)

Schedule car tire care at Toyota of N Charlotte 

Want more tips on fuel efficiency or need to schedule tire care? Let Toyota of N Charlotte help! We're open seven days a week at (704) 659-2025.