Gas prices never seem to stay down for long, and if you drive every day, you’ve probably noticed how quickly fuel costs eat into your budget. The good news is that many people waste gas without even realizing it. Small habits behind the wheel can make a big difference in how much fuel your car burns. The bad news? Most of those habits are easy to fix—if you know what to look for.
Let’s take a closer look at seven common driving habits that quietly drain your fuel tank and learn how to correct them. Even changing just a few of these behaviors can help you save money every time you fill up.
1. Aggressive Acceleration and Hard Braking
If you love quick take-offs or braking late at stoplights, your gas mileage is paying the price. Rapid acceleration and sudden stops force your engine to work harder, using more fuel in the process. Studies have shown that smooth driving can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 30% on the highway and 40% in city traffic.
Try this: Ease onto the gas pedal and keep a consistent pace whenever you can. Look ahead so you can anticipate traffic flow instead of reacting to it at the last second.
2. Letting Your Car Idle Too Long
Idling burns gas without getting you anywhere. Whether you’re warming up your car on a cold morning or waiting to pick someone up, keeping the engine running wastes fuel. Modern engines don’t need more than 30 seconds to warm up.
Try this: If you’re stopped for more than a minute, turn the engine off. Restarting uses less fuel than idling for long periods.
3. Driving Too Fast on the Highway
It’s tempting to push the speed limit, especially on long drives. But once you go over 60 mph, your fuel economy starts dropping fast. Every 5 mph over that speed is like paying an extra 20 cents per gallon.
Try this: Use cruise control on open roads to maintain a steady speed. Not only will you save gas, but you’ll also make your trip more relaxed and predictable.
4. Carrying Extra Weight
The heavier your car, the more work your engine does. A trunk full of tools, sports gear, or boxes might not seem like much, but those extra pounds add up. Roof racks or cargo boxes also create drag, cutting into fuel efficiency.
Try this: Empty your trunk of items you don’t use regularly and remove roof racks when you’re not using them. Lighter cars move easier and burn less gas.
5. Poor Tire Maintenance
Underinflated tires are one of the most overlooked fuel wasters. When your tires aren’t properly inflated, they create more resistance against the road. That resistance forces your engine to use more power—and more fuel—to keep you moving.
Try this: Check your tire pressure every few weeks, especially during weather changes. Keep it at the level recommended in your owner’s manual, not what’s printed on the tire’s sidewall.
6. Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Dirty air filters, old spark plugs, and neglected oil changes all affect how efficiently your car runs. A poorly maintained engine can use up to 20% more fuel than one that’s properly serviced.
Try this: Keep up with your vehicle’s maintenance schedule. Regular oil changes, clean filters, and tune-ups not only improve fuel economy but also help your car last longer.
7. Using the Wrong Fuel or Oil Type
Using a higher-octane fuel when your car doesn’t require it won’t boost performance—it’ll just drain your wallet. The same goes for oil. Using the wrong viscosity can increase engine friction and reduce fuel efficiency.
Try this: Stick with the fuel grade and oil type recommended by your manufacturer. It’s designed for your engine’s best performance and economy.