For most drivers, commuting isn’t optional—but overpaying at the pump is. If you’re not ready to change your route, carpool, or switch to an EV, you can still lower your fuel expenses by adjusting how you drive, how you pay, and how you maintain your vehicle. The best part? These tactics work no matter where or how often you drive.
Here’s how to reduce your fuel costs without changing your commute.
- Check Your Tire Pressure Weekly
Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 psi drop in pressure across all tires.
Check your tire pressure weekly and inflate them to your vehicle’s recommended PSI. You can find this information in your car’s owner’s manual or on the inside of the driver’s door.
Source: U.S. Department of Energy
- Avoid Aggressive Acceleration and Braking
Stop-and-go traffic may be unavoidable, but aggressive driving habits aren’t. Fast acceleration, hard braking, and rapid lane changes can reduce your gas mileage by up to 30% on highways and 40% in city traffic.
To save fuel, accelerate smoothly and maintain a steady speed whenever possible. If your vehicle has a fuel economy display, use it as a real-time guide.
- Reduce Excess Weight
Every extra 100 pounds in your vehicle reduces fuel economy by about 1%, especially in smaller vehicles. If you’re storing sports gear, tools, or other heavy items in your trunk or back seat, consider removing them unless they’re essential for your commute.
Source: FuelEconomy.gov
- Skip Premium Fuel (Unless Your Car Requires It)
Many drivers assume that using premium gas results in better fuel efficiency. In reality, unless your vehicle specifically recommends or requires high-octane fuel, using regular unleaded will deliver the same performance—at a lower cost.
Check your owner’s manual to confirm fuel requirements. For most vehicles, regular unleaded is sufficient.
- Plan Errands Around Your Commute
Even if your route to work stays the same, you can optimize your weekly driving by bundling errands into one trip. Cold engines use more fuel, so combining short drives into a single outing can reduce overall fuel consumption and cut down on unnecessary mileage.
- Use Cruise Control (When Appropriate)
On flat highways, cruise control can help maintain a constant speed and improve fuel economy. However, avoid using it on hilly or winding roads, where it can cause the engine to work harder during elevation changes.
- Keep Up With Engine Maintenance
A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Replacing clogged air filters, changing the oil on schedule, and checking your spark plugs can all improve fuel economy. A single misfiring spark plug can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 30%.
For accurate service intervals, refer to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule or consult a certified mechanic.
- Monitor Fuel Prices Before You Fill Up
Apps like GasBuddy and AAA Gas Prices let you compare prices at local stations, helping you avoid overpriced locations along your route. Even a 10–15 cent difference per gallon can add up over time, especially if you commute daily.
Smart Fuel Savings Without Big Changes
Cutting fuel costs doesn’t have to mean sacrificing convenience or dramatically altering your lifestyle. With a few simple habits—like smoother driving, better maintenance, and smarter fueling—you can keep more money in your wallet without changing your commute.
