Don’t let the high price of gas drive you to the poorhouse. Just follow these simple rules and you’ll be the master of your mileage:

· Keep your tires fully inflated.
· Low tire pressure means low fuel efficiency.
· Clean the junk out of your trunk.
· Weight is the enemy of gas mileage.
· Tighten your gas cap to prevent gas from evaporating.
· Buy gas in the morning. The afternoon heat causes gas to expand, and you get less for your money.
· Don’t speed. The higher the speed, the fewer miles per gallon.
· Avoid quick starts and sudden stops.
· Don’t start your car until you’re ready to leave. Idling for just two minutes uses enough gas to drive for two miles.
· Use the air conditioning only when needed. Air conditioning greatly reduces your fuel economy.
· Shop for gas by price, not brand. All brands must meet the same government regulations.
Source: www.aaasouth.com

Wheel News
There are more than half a billion cars in use worldwide. One third of these are in the United
States.

It is estimated that a car is stolen every 20 seconds in the U.S. The average cost of owning and operating an automobile in 2005 was 70.0 cents per mile.

The average American travels an average of 14,000 miles a year and spends nearly 1/5 of his/her income on transportation.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, if vehicles in the U.S averaged 40 mpg, the nation would save more oil than it imports from the Middle East.

Lemon-Aid
According to www.cartalk.cars.com, in each and every state there are lemon laws. These laws provide consumers with specific rights. If the car you bought meets the definition of a lemon, you could be entitled to a refund or a replacement vehicle.

Premium Advice
According to AAA, only about 6 percent of all cars made actually require premium gas. Octane ratings measure gasoline’s ability to resist engine knock – the higher the octane, the higherthe price. So resist the urge to splurge for octane you don’t need. Stay regular and you’ll get super savings.
Source: US Dept. of Transportation

First Aid for Your Wallet is written by Flagler College’s NationalChampion Students In Free Enterprise organization. Questions or comments? Contact DWebb@flagler.edu.

© 2004 Flagler College, St. Augustine, FL

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