We’ve all been there—rushing out the door, low on time, and barely watching the fuel gauge. But even when you’re behind schedule, there are still ways to keep from burning through gas faster than necessary. These fast, low-effort tips can help stretch your tank without slowing you down—and they’re perfect for anyone juggling a packed schedule.
- Ease Into Acceleration, Even If You’re in a Hurry
It’s tempting to punch the gas when you’re running late, but rapid acceleration is one of the biggest fuel wasters. Instead, press the pedal gently and let your speed build steadily. You’ll still get where you’re going, but with better mileage—and less stress on your engine.
- Avoid Stop-and-Go Routes
Heavy traffic or routes with constant lights can destroy fuel efficiency. Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to pick routes with fewer stops and smoother flow, even if they’re slightly longer in distance. The less braking and accelerating you do, the less gas your car burns.
- Keep Tire Pressure at Recommended Levels
Low tire pressure adds rolling resistance, which makes your engine work harder. If you haven’t checked your tires in a while, now’s the time—especially during seasonal temperature changes. Properly inflated tires can improve MPG by up to 3% and help you move more efficiently when time is tight.
- Skip the AC When the Weather’s Mild
Running the air conditioning full blast puts a noticeable load on your engine. If it’s a cool morning or a breezy day, roll the windows down at lower speeds or use the fan-only setting instead. You’ll conserve fuel without sacrificing comfort—especially on quick trips.
- Don’t Idle While Texting or Waiting
Sitting in your car with the engine on while replying to messages or checking directions wastes gas for zero payoff. If you’re going to be parked for more than a minute, turn the engine off. Restarting uses less fuel than prolonged idling, and it’s better for your car (and the air around you).
Final Thoughts
Even when you’re in a rush, you can still drive smarter. These quick habits take almost no effort to adopt, and over time, they’ll help keep your fuel costs lower—no matter how busy your day gets.
