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We hear it in some form everyday. Excess weight is dangerous and should be eliminated in the safest way possible. Same old song and dance in an ever expanding world. Did you know that losing excess weight could actually save money? No, we’re not talking about saving money in the drive through at McDonald’s, though that could help too.
This weight loss is concerning your car. It’s probably carrying around some extra weight that’s not just in the spare tire like the rest of us. The truth of the matter is that too much unnecessary weight in the trunk and other areas of your vehicle is hurting your car’s fuel efficiency.
To make the point clear, an extra 100 pounds in tools, assorted stuff, and your mother-in-law is seriously dragging on your car’s fuel system and causing a reduction of 2% in gas efficiency. It may not sound like a lot, but it adds up fast. Just watch the pump the next time you gas up.
This isn’t meant as a suggestion to dump mommy-in-law on the side of road that would be mean. Simply pay attention to excess stuff you’re driving around with and look to see what can be eliminated.
Let’s start with the trunk first. Many people drive around with more tools and car products than they really could possibly have a need for. For example, your car cleaning and detailing products really don’t need to go everywhere with you.
Face it; it is doubtful that you will be touching up the details on your paint job during a movie. Leave that stuff at home and save a bundle at the pumps. Moving on to the tools, you are absolutely convinced you will need for a quick trip to the store.
It may be a shock, but all of your wrenches and ratchets are not essentials for every moment of everyday. The likelihood that the car will break down and you will need absolutely every tool you need is slim. Really, that’s a promise. Now, if you do encounter car trouble and need everything you own and don’t have it, you did not hear that advice here. Seriously, a simple, concise set of commonly needed tools will serve you just fine.
Another common mistake people make is the luggage carrier attached to the top of their vehicle. They are useful and beneficial while you are on vacation, but luggage carriers really aren’t necessary for going back and forth to work each day. If they are, you may want to consider relocating. They create wind resistance and may decrease fuel efficiency by up to 5%. No one can afford that with today’s gas prices.
In a nutshell, getting rid of excess weight in your vehicle is an excellent way to better your chances of getting away from the pumps with at least a little money left in your wallet. Take careful stock of what you do need in case of emergency and store the rest at home in the garage.