Back in the day, a driving instructor gave this advice when asked for suggestions on how to improve fuel efficiency. His response drew laughs, but the theory behind his response was perfectly sound. His advice was to place an egg under the accelerator pedal. While accelerating, if the egg broke, the driver was not driving in an efficient manner. The point he made was “slow and easy” works best. By applying soft, easy pressure on the accelerator, jackrabbit starts are avoided. Obviously, fast take-offs from a standing stop burn excessive amounts of petrol and will have adverse effects on fuel economy.

When on the open road, you can save money by using the speed control device that have become fairly common on every motor car. A constant speed lowers consumption of fuel and will get you to your destination as quickly as or quicker than the jack ass who keeps passing, then falling behind you every kilometre or two.

Whether you set your speed control or not, driving at or below speed limits, will have a positive impact on your mileage. At 50 km, your efficiency increases by as much as 20% over a 70 km speed. Slow down, relax. You will get there in plenty of time and save a few dollars along the way.

Today’s cars are loaded with accessories. They have more computer power than earlier space capsules. Every option uses the power of the car’s engine to recharge the batteries. The more accessories you have in use, the less favourable your mileage figures will be. The most significant fuel guzzler is the air conditioner. Certainly a person wouldn’t want to give up on that luxury, but on those days when outside temperatures are pleasant, consider rolling down the windows and breathing in some of that fine Australian air. It’s free.

Devices that remotely start your vehicle seem like a great idea. In reality they are not. They are fuel wasters and do the environment harm. Engines emit most of their toxic fumes when at idle and waste precious litres of petrol. Toughen up. Don’t start the car until you are ready to depart. Let the engine warm for 30 seconds or so, and then take off. Remember the egg. The same advice applies during the hot seasonal temperatures. Consider applying window tint or film and or cardboard cut-outs for your windscreen to keep out as much sunlight as possible. Do not sit on your leather seats wearing shorts. That has nothing to do with fuel economy but it sure prevents burns.

Unfortunately, coasting downhill only works for half of the trip, but coasting when possible is a terrific plan. Get the big picture ahead of you and anticipate stops and try to avoid sudden ones. If your car’s transmission has an overdrive gear, use it on the highways and open roads. The gearing will provide more efficiency.

Check your tyres for proper inflation. Tyres under inflated cause drag on the car and influence mileage. Use only tires specified by the manufacturer. Improperly sized tyres, those too broad or two tall are not to be used.

Keep your car running well by changing oil on a regular basis, and keeping the engine tuned. Change air filters on a regular recommended basis. Some experts strongly believe that converting to synthetic oil will improve mileage.

Close off passenger vents when not needed, and drive with your windows rolled up when motoring at highway speeds to reduce drag and increase efficiency. Every adjustment to your driving habits has some effect on mileage. The more you adhere to these bits of advice, the better of an economy car you get.