 Don’t Be Fuelish One of the easiest ways to make the most of your fuel budget is to ensure your car is operating as efficiently as possible. Make sure the tires are inflated to the proper level. Properly inflated tires provide less road-resistance and can help improve fuel efficiency while driving. Avoid packing items on top of the car or hauling heavy materials in the car’s cargo area. The wind resistance and extra weight can decrease your car’s gas mileage over the course of your trip. Pay With a Rewards Card Credit cards offer a simple way to pay for things quickly and without hassle – ideal for making a gasoline purchase. The benefits of some cards extend beyond convenience to actually help you save money on your purchases. When pulling up to the gas pump, use a credit card that offers a rebate on gasoline purchases. Learn more about the benefits of the Shell MasterCard®. Avoid “Jackrabbit” Driving Habits The way you drive your vehicle also can have an impact on costs. “Jackrabbit” driving, or abrupt starts and sudden stops, can take a real toll on your vehicle and decrease its fuel efficiency. Press down gradually and gently on the pedals, giving your brakes – and your passengers – a break. You also can use your cruise control while on the highway to help limit the amount of accelerating and braking. Stick to the Service Schedule Whether you’re headed to the workplace or to a vacation destination, the last thing you want is an unexpected breakdown. To help prevent unwanted car trouble, have scheduled maintenance performed on your car as recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. A regular oil change and an inspection of your vehicle’s belts, hoses and fluids will help prevent unexpected problems. Find the nearest Jiffy Lube® location or Shell station with AutoCare. Plan Your Outings Take a few moments to plan your trip and the stops you need to make. To keep your car’s engine warm and running efficiently, combine your errands into one outing to avoid short separate trips. This will help avoid unnecessary cold starts. When possible, consider carpooling with friends or co-workers and taking turns driving. By limiting the number of trips your car makes in heavy traffic, you’ll help minimize the wear and tear on your vehicle and save on fuel costs. Check out RoadWatch America for the latest road conditions.
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