Enjoythedrive.com Suggests Ways to Save Money at the Gas Pump

DIAMOND BAR, Calif., March 13 -- As gas prices rev up, enjoythedrive.com suggests several ways drivers can save money at the gas pump.

"Everybody has become uncomfortably aware of their vehicles' fuel economy," says Chris Horn, vice president of communications for SEMA, the Specialty Equipment Market Association. "While you can save money by driving fewer miles, that isn't an option for most of us. Fortunately, it's easy for practically any vehicle to get better gas mileage. And there's a bonus: Many modifications that enhance fuel economy also improve your vehicle's performance, and they reduce emissions."

Enjoythedrive.com offers the following money-saving tips:

1. CHECK YOUR TIRES. Low tires reduce fuel economy and wear out faster. If you don't check your tire pressure regularly, consider installing a tire monitoring system to alert you whenever it's time to add air.

2. MAKE LIFE EASIER FOR YOUR ENGINE. Engines hate friction, so anything you can do to reduce it will make your motor-and your wallet-happier. For starters, change your oil regularly, and use a high-quality or synthetic motor oil to further reduce internal friction. Oil additives can reduce friction, too.

3. LIGHT A FIRE. Is your engine overdue for a tune-up? If so, new spark plugs and wires will make a difference. Even if you're not behind in maintenance, an upgrade to high-performance spark plugs and low-resistance plug wires can improve fuel economy and performance, as well as reduce emissions.

4. BREATHE DEEPLY. If you've ever tried to drink a thick milkshake through a straw, you know how hard it is to pull fluid through an opening that's too small. Your engine may be trying to gulp air through a small intake system-or a dirty air filter. A new high-flow air filter can help your engine inhale more easily.

5. LET IT OUT. If your engine is trying to exhale through an exhaust system that's too small, a high-flow muffler or headers can help. Also, make sure your catalytic converter isn't clogged (you'll know, because your exhaust will smell like rotten eggs). When it's time to change, a high-flow "cat" will further increase your fuel economy.

6. DON'T IDLE WHILE YOU'RE WAITING. When you aren't moving and the engine's running, you're getting 0 miles per gallon. If you're going to be sitting still for more than a couple minutes, shut off the engine.

7. DON'T FLOOR IT. It may be fun to see how fast your vehicle can accelerate, but that's definitely not the way to optimize fuel economy.

For more information on improving gas mileage and other automotive tips, visit www.enjoythedrive.com SEMA's consumer Web site.