• Buy a Newer Used Car - Cars decline in value the most during the first few years. Therefore models that are less than five years old can be a great value because you get a nearly new car still in good working order for a fraction of the new-car price. And you’ll pay less for your insurance cost and taxes, also.
• Use a Smaller Car - A big gas guzzler or sports car costs more, has higher insurance premiums, uses more gas, and costs more to repair. A car that gets good gas mileage can save hundreds of dollars a year. According to Kiplinger “drive 1,200 miles per month in a car that averages 18 miles per gallon, and you’ll spend $233 per month (at $3.50 per gallon). Drive a car that averages 25 miles per gallon, and you’ll spend $168 per month-a savings of $65 per month, or $780 per year.”
• Shop for Auto Insurance - Refer to prior blog for discussion of Auto Insurance
• Shop for Gas - Take the time to find the least expensive gas in your area. Gas prices can vary as much as twenty percent. Use a resource such as ColoradoGasPrices.com to find the least expensive station in your area.
• Be a One Car Family - You can easily save $500/month just by getting rid of an extra car. Explore the possibility of using only one car for you and your family.
• Avoid Driving When at All Possible - Obviously, the best way to save money on driving is by not driving. If you drive the same route every day, organize a carpool or take the bus. Not having to drive during rush hour traffic might also be a way to reduce stress. You will also save money on parking. And for those of you who live close enough to your work or your grocery store consider walking or bike riding. Not only will you save money but it will be beneficial to your health.
• Check Your Tire Pressure - Be sure that your tires are properly inflated. You could save as much as three percent on gas, which for an average driver will be approximately $50/year.
• Remove the Luggage Rack - If your car has a luggage rack, you could be reducing your fuel efficiency by ten percent. Taking the luggage rack off when you aren’t using it will save an average driver approximately $150/year.
• Remove Excess Weight - Some people store unnecessary items in their car. The extra weight can reduce your mileage.
• Don’t Buy Premium Gas - If your car does not require premium gas, then buying it will not help your mileage or your car’s performance.
• Decrease Use of Air Conditioning When Possible - Air conditioning will decrease your gas mileage. So when at all possible turn it off. Note that while driving at slow speeds, it is more efficient to roll down the windows. At high speeds, air conditioning is more fuel efficient because rolling down the windows increases wind resistance.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me. Kevin D. Heupel, Colorado Bankruptcy lawyer, 303-955-7570, COBankruptcyHelpEmail, free-consultation form. I will answer your questions with no obligation. I am here to help.