Driving a hybrid car is not the only way to save gas when you drive. You can make your current car more economical simply by doing some regular maintenance on it. The following tips will help you find ways to reduce the amount of gas your car uses, which is not only easier on the environment, it is also easier on your pocketbook.

1. Keep your tires properly inflated to the maximum manufacturer's recommendation. Low tire pressure or unequal tire pressure will cause tires to drag and use more gas. It would be the same as trying to pedal a bicycle with flat tires. For best results, check your tire pressure every time you fill your car up with gas. When checking tire pressure, remember that the pressure is about three pounds less when the tires are cold then when they are hot. The right tire pressure should add about fifteen percent to our car's gas mileage and will extend the life of your tires.

2. When shopping for new tires, consider purchasing radial tires. Radial designs reduce friction between the tire and the road, which saves gas. You should also consider purchasing larger diameter tires for your rear wheels.

3. Use snow tires only when necessary. The deep tire tread forces your car to work harder and uses more gasoline.

4. Keep your tires aligned. Make sure that they are periodically spun, balanced, and checked for out of round. This will provide better mileage and save your tires.

5. Have your brakes checked and adjusted. Any drag will increase resistance and decrease gas mileage.

6. Check, or have someone check, your suspension and chassis parts. Misalignments, bent axels, bad shocks, or similar problem can cause engine drag. They will not only increase your car's gas usage but can make your car unsafe to drive.

7. Clogged filters can reduce your car's gas mileage by up to ten percent. Check your air filter periodically. If the dust will not shake out easily, then it is time to replace it. Also, check your oil and fuel filters to see if they need replacing.

8. Using the right oil can improve your car's gas mileage by up to two percent. Check the manufacturer's guidelines for your car and use the recommended grade. Also, look for motor oil that lists "energy conserving" on its API performance label. They have additives that reduce friction in your engine.

9. Check your car's spark plugs. Look for any worn spark plugs and make sure that they are clean. A misfiring spark plug can reduce your car's fuel economy by thirty percent.

10. Take your car in for a regular tune up. A good tune up will pay for itself in fuel savings.

11. Check that your gas cap fits tightly. Loose and missing gas can cause gas to evaporate from your car. The Car Care Council estimates that almost 150 million gallons of gas are lost each year this way.

12. Remove any items that can cause wind resistance or air drag. This includes vinyl tops and any roof racks. The less aerodynamic your car is the more fuel it uses. A loaded roof rack can reduce your car's fuel economy by up to five percent. Removing roof racks will also reduce wind noise on the highway.

13. Keeping your car clean makes it more aerodynamic. A smooth waxed surface offers less wind resistance. You should also take the time in the winter to remove any snow and ice from your car. They not only cause wind resistance but also can add unnecessary weight to the car.

14. Remove any excess weight from inside the car. This includes any seats that are not typically used. The more weight in your car, the more gas that it will use, especially when driving up inclines. Carrying a mere one hundred pounds will reduce your car's fuel economy by up to two percent.

Remember, spending a little money to maintain your car today will save money in the end. It will help prevent breakdowns and make your car last longer.

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