Driving is Expensive

Driving a car is generally the most expensive way to get around. It also contributes to road damage, air pollution and global warming.

Owning a car can cost on average $8,500 per year. That includes a medium sedan, driving 15,000 miles per year and does not include loan payments.
Calculate your costs from AAA’s Annual Driving Guide.

If you can walk, bike, take the bus, or ride share you can substantially cut your expenses and environmental impact. Or take a look at an alternative fuel vehicle if you are interested in moving away from gasoline.

Some choices:

Ways to Save

1. Maintain your vehicle – a well-tuned car burns less gasoline. Get your oil and air filters changed regularly. Use the correct oil. Check your tire pressure – underinflated tires waste gas and will reduce your tire’s lifespan.

2. Lose the extra weight – every 100 pounds you carry inside your car lowers its fuel economy by 1 to 2 percent. So don’t use your car to store your golf clubs and other stuff. And keep luggage inside the vehicle. Luggage strapped on top will increase the drag on your vehicle.

3. Calm down – fast, aggressive driving wastes fuel. Maintain a constant speed and try to avoid rapid acceleration and braking. For every 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $.24 per gallon for gas.

4. Too hot? – use the air conditioner if you’re going faster than 40 mph. When you’re driving around town, it’s more efficient to roll down your windows.

5. Walk, bus, bicycle, carpool? – think of ways you can reduce the number of car trips. Going somewhere less than ½ mile away? Try walking instead. Check out your public transit routes to see if taking the bus could save you some money. Ask around at work to see if someone from your area could share the ride to work.

6. Get a gas app – Dozens of apps and websites are out there that can help you find cheap gas on the road. GasBuddy.com is just one.

7. E-Z Pass - E-Z Pass will help you avoid toll booth lines, saving you idling time and gas.