If you’ve felt your wallet shrinking at the pump lately, you’re not alone. Gas prices have been climbing, and for many drivers, the culprit isn’t just the market, it’s habits we don’t even realize we have behind the wheel. Small, everyday behaviors can quietly drain your fuel efficiency and cost you hundreds over the course of a year.
The good news? With a few simple adjustments, you can save gas, money, and even reduce wear on your vehicle. At Burt Brothers, we’ve seen firsthand how small changes in driving and maintenance habits can make a big difference, not just for your wallet but for your car’s lifespan too.
1. Idling Too Long
Many drivers think keeping the engine running while parked or waiting is harmless, or even better than restarting the car. The reality? Idling burns fuel unnecessarily. Even a minute or two of engine idle can waste more gas than you’d expect.
Tip: If you’re stopped for more than 60 seconds, like at a long stoplight or waiting to pick someone up, turn off your engine. Modern vehicles are built to handle frequent restarts, so don’t worry about wear and tear.
At Burt Brothers, we often remind customers that idling not only wastes fuel but can also deposit carbon in the engine over time. Simple steps like shutting off the engine can improve both efficiency and longevity.
2. Aggressive Driving
Rapid acceleration, speeding, and hard braking are not just dangerous, they’re expensive. Aggressive driving can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 30% on the highway and 40% in stop-and-go traffic.
Tip: Ease on the gas, anticipate stops, and use cruise control when possible on open roads. Smooth driving isn’t just safer, it’s cheaper.
3. Incorrect Tire Pressure
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. On the other hand, overinflated tires may wear unevenly or compromise handling.
Tip: Check your tire pressure at least once a month with a reliable digital gauge. Follow the manufacturer’s recommended PSI for your vehicle. At Burt Brothers, our tire experts routinely help drivers optimize tire pressure to maximize both safety and fuel efficiency.
4. Carrying Unnecessary Weight
Extra cargo isn’t just clutter, it’s extra weight your engine has to move. Every 100 pounds of unnecessary weight can reduce fuel economy by about 1-2%. Roof racks, heavy tools, or items you rarely use can all add up.
Tip: Remove roof racks and trim out excess weight from your trunk. Travel light unless you really need that gear. Burt Brothers’ service centers can even help with storage-friendly suggestions to keep your car lean and efficient.
5. Speeding Past Fuel-Efficient Zones
Most vehicles achieve their best fuel economy between 45 and 65 mph. Once you push past that, fuel efficiency drops exponentially, sometimes losing as much as 20% at highway speeds over 75 mph.
Tip: Stick to posted limits not only to save gas but also to avoid tickets. Every mile per hour over the ideal range can cost you more than just fuel, it can wear out tires and brakes faster too.
6. Poor Route Planning
Frequent stops, traffic jams, and zig-zagging across town waste more fuel than most people realize. Short, inefficient trips can really add up over a week.
Tip: Use traffic apps or GPS features to plan the most efficient route. Combine errands into a single trip whenever possible. Even small changes in route planning can shave off gallons of wasted gas each month.
7. Ignoring Regular Maintenance
Dirty air filters, worn spark plugs, old engine oil, and clogged fuel injectors reduce efficiency. Regular maintenance isn’t just about avoiding breakdowns, it directly impacts how much fuel your vehicle consumes.
Tip: Follow your vehicle’s recommended service schedule. Seasonal tune-ups and preventative care at Burt Brothers can help ensure your car runs at peak efficiency, saving gas and extending engine life.
8. Using AC Excessively
Air conditioning can reduce fuel economy by up to 25%, especially at low speeds or in older vehicles. While it’s tempting to crank it on during every drive, overusing AC can quietly inflate your fuel costs.
Tip: Use the AC in moderation, switch to recirculation mode, and consider ventilating your car before you start driving. Parking in the shade or using sunshades can also help keep your vehicle cooler, reducing AC dependency.
9. Driving Short Trips Frequently
Short trips, especially those under a mile, force your engine to start cold, which burns more fuel than a warmed-up engine. Multiple short trips throughout the day compound this inefficiency.
Tip: Whenever possible, combine short trips into a longer, continuous drive. For really short errands, consider walking or biking. Burt Brothers often advises drivers to consider trip consolidation as part of their fuel-saving strategies.
10. Believing in Fuel-Saving Myths
There are plenty of myths about saving gas. Premium fuel magically improving mileage? Engine warming up before driving? Many of these habits actually waste fuel rather than saving it.
Tip: Trust data-backed practices. Follow manufacturer recommendations for fuel type and maintenance, and don’t fall for hearsay. Your car—and your wallet—will thank you.
Comparison Table: Fuel-Wasting Habits vs. Fuel-Saving Fixes
| Habit | Fuel Impact | Recommended Fix |
| Idling | High | Turn off engine when parked |
| Aggressive driving | High | Smooth acceleration/braking |
| Low tire pressure | Moderate | Monthly PSI checks |
| Excess weight | Moderate | Remove unnecessary cargo |
| Speeding | High | Stay within 45–65 mph |
Drive Smarter, Save More
Small changes in your driving habits and maintenance routine can lead to significant fuel savings. From turning off the engine while waiting, to maintaining proper tire pressure, to planning your routes strategically, every step counts.
At Burt Brothers, we’re dedicated to helping drivers get the most out of their vehicles. Whether it’s fuel-efficiency inspections, tire checks, or regular maintenance, our expert team can help you save money at the pump while keeping your car running smoothly.
Take control of your fuel habits today, your wallet (and your vehicle) will thank you.
FAQ Section
Does idling waste gas?
Yes—idling burns fuel without moving the vehicle. Turn off your engine when waiting more than a minute.
Is it true that AC reduces fuel economy?
Yes—especially at low speeds or in older vehicles. Use it moderately and ventilate your car before driving when possible.
What’s the best speed for fuel efficiency?
Typically, between 45 and 65 mph, depending on your vehicle. Driving faster significantly increases fuel consumption.
