As we all know, the price of gas is not cheap. Indeed, the national average stands at $ 2.78 per gallon, with prices of more than $ 3 in many areas of the United States.   To give you an idea of what it can cost in a year, according to the Texas Transportation Institute, on average a driver in  Sacramento, California has spent $685 on gas during the year 2003 (compared to $ 132 annual average in 1983).

We can certainly do nothing on the actual rate of gas prices, what we can do something about is on how often you need to buy it. Here are some tips to save on gasoline:

• Drive at constant speed. Driving regularly in the speed limit can really help in your vehicle to save gas. Stops and starts consume large quantity of gas, so try to anticipate the traffic in front of you as much as possible.   Experts say that for every 5mph over 60 mph, is like adding an additional ten to twenty percent per gallon on your gas purchase.
  
  
• Keep your engine tuned. Not only regular tune-up  prevent undesirable breakdowns, they also help save money for gas. Some engineers believe that an engine incorrectly set can contain up to 50 percent more of a gas that an engine that works well. Always remember to change your oil and air filter every 3000 miles (or as often as recommended, or as indicated in your car manual). The US Department of Energy estimates that you can save up to 10 percent in gasoline by just replacing a  faulty air filter. 

• Keep your tires properly inflated. The proper tire inflation for your tire should be in your manual. If the tires are not inflated properly, your vehicle consumes more gas. The U.S. Department of Energy explains that drivers can save an average of 3.3 percent in their gas if their tires are properly inflated. 

• Try to minimize your driving. Try to plan your long trip, instead of several short trips (including combination of routes, if possible). If you can, try to carpool, you can use other modes of transportation (buses, trains, subways), or go to your bike or on foot, if your destination is within the vicinity, and you can save time. These are the main ways to save gas, and they have the added advantage that helps protect the environment. You can also try to adjust your working hours, so that you do not need to drive on rush hours. 

• Consider buying a smaller, fuel-efficient car. Small cars are not only often cheaper to buy but also consume less gas (because they are lighter). In addition, cars with automatic gearbox consumes an average of 5 miles per gallon less than manual transmission and six-cylinder engines at about 4-5 miles per gallon less than four-cylinder engines.

With these tips, you can save money on gasoline and reduce your cost of expense on your own pocket. Do you want another way to cut the costs you spend in your car? Shop for car insurance, around you and see how much you can save!