How to get better gas mileage in your car or truck

Proper vehicle maintenance doesn't just help extend the life of your vehicle - it can help relieve some of the financial pressure brought on by high gas prices. The following are a few key services our factory-trained auto service technicians can perform to help boost your mpg and fuel economy.

• Keep your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Making sure your tire pressure isn't too low - or too high - can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3%.
• Get the recommended grade of motor oil. Our experts offer a full line of high-quality oil and filter products from Motorcraft^®. Using the one that's right for your vehicle can help improve fuel efficiency by up to 2%.
• Get an engine tune-up. Making sure all your systems are operating at their best can save you 4% in fuel efficiency.

Saving fuel after a visit to your local Quick Lane is just the start. Here are a few things you can be conscious of when you're behind the wheel to help you squeeze a little more out of your gas dollars.

• Avoid aggressive driving. Not only can it be dangerous, but constant speed changes and quick, uneven stops and starts also waste a lot of fuel. Taking it easier behind the wheel can improve your gas mileage by as much as 33%
• Remove excess weight. You can save about 2% in fuel efficiency for every 100 lbs. of weight you remove from your car or truck
• Use your cruise control. It's almost always more fuel-efficient to travel at a constant speed whenever possible
• Avoid idling. It's more fuel-efficient to turn off your engine when you're waiting in the car
• Combine trips. Your engine works most efficiently when warmed up
• Don't speed. Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph.