You don’t need to upgrade your car to improve fuel efficiency—sometimes, small changes in how you drive can make a big difference. Everyday driving habits play a huge role in how much gas your vehicle uses, and most of them are easy to correct. Whether you’re commuting, road-tripping, or driving for work, these common behaviors could be costing you at the pump.

1. Aggressive acceleration
   Rapid acceleration burns more fuel than gradual takeoff. Ease into the gas pedal and accelerate smoothly to conserve fuel. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by 15%–30% on highways and 10%–40% in stop-and-go traffic.
2. Excessive idling
   Leaving your engine running while parked wastes fuel. If you’re stopped for more than 60 seconds, it’s more efficient to turn the engine off. Learn more about the impacts of idling from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
3. Speeding
   Fuel efficiency drops significantly over 50 mph. Every 5 mph over that threshold is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon, per fueleconomy.gov.
4. Not using cruise control
   On highways, cruise control helps maintain a steady speed and minimizes unnecessary fuel use from speed fluctuations.
5. Carrying excess weight
   An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle can reduce MPG, especially in smaller vehicles. Unload unnecessary items from your trunk or backseat.
6. Poor tire maintenance
   Underinflated tires create rolling resistance, which lowers fuel economy. Check your tire pressure monthly and inflate to the recommended PSI listed on your driver’s door frame or in the vehicle manual. The NHTSA provides guidelines on tire safety and efficiency.
7. Ignoring routine maintenance
   Dirty air filters, old spark plugs, and neglected oil changes can lead to lower fuel efficiency. Regular servicing ensures your engine runs optimally.
8. Using the wrong motor oil
   Using oil with a viscosity higher than what your engine requires can increase friction and reduce mileage. Always use oil that meets the manufacturer’s specification.
9. Driving short distances frequently
   Engines use more fuel when they haven’t reached optimal operating temperature. Consolidating errands into one longer trip helps reduce fuel waste from cold starts.
10. Keeping windows down at highway speeds
    Open windows create drag, which lowers MPG on the highway. Use air conditioning moderately or crack windows in city traffic instead.

The bottom line

Small tweaks in your driving behavior can add up to noticeable fuel savings over time. These changes not only help your wallet but also reduce emissions and extend your vehicle’s lifespan. Combine smarter driving with additional savings tools—like loyalty programs or cashback gift cards from platforms such as Fluz—for even greater impact.