How to avoid wasting fuel: Simple tips to get the most out of your gas tank

How can drivers better manage their vehicle to address rising fuel prices? CTV's Sanjay Maru reports.

At a gas station on Erie Street East, Monday’s price sits just 11 cents shy of $2 per litre — and while drivers can’t control the rising cost of gas, a Windsor, Ont., auto repair expert says many may be wasting fuel without even realizing it.

Justin Lapointe, owner of Justin’s Auto Repair, says improving fuel efficiency often comes down to basic maintenance.

“Making sure your car is properly maintained — clean air filter, good spark plugs, the engine’s running properly,” Lapointe said.

A dirty air filter can choke the engine, forcing it to burn more gas just to keep up. Worn spark plugs, meanwhile, can lead to incomplete combustion — meaning you’re paying for fuel your engine isn’t even fully using.

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But the biggest contributor, according to Lapointe, is something many drivers don’t think about.

Under-inflated tires create drag, forcing the engine to work harder and burn more fuel — a small issue that can quietly add up at the pump.

“That is the number one contributor for poor fuel efficiency that a lot of people don’t realize,” said Lapointe.

He says drivers should also take a look inside their vehicle, as extra weight can reduce fuel efficiency over time — especially for those making frequent stops.

“If you’re one of those people, I’d recommend removing those unnecessary items from the vehicle and lightening the load,” Lapointe said.

Short trips? ‘Not very good’

He added that driving habits play a role as well, “It’s nice to have slow acceleration with a gradual speed increase. When you see that you’re coming to a stop, let off the gas and coast down.”

Short trips can also work against drivers, since engines use more fuel before reaching optimal operating temperature.

“Short drives are not very good for fuel efficiency. Longer drives are better,” said Lapointe. “If you’re driving on the highway at cruising speeds, the fuel efficiency will be so much better than if you’re just doing city driving.”

‘I’m just staying home’

The advice comes as Windsor drivers say rising gas prices are already forcing changes.

“Before, whenever I’d get some free time, I’d roam around somewhere [in my car]. But right now, due to the prices, I’m just staying home and just watching Netflix,” said Harish Srinivasan.

Others say they’re cutting back on outings altogether.

“We used to go to Kingsville to take the dog out there. We won’t do that now until the gas prices come down,” said Carolyn Burton.

And for some, it’s about consolidating trips to save where they can.

“If I’m doing groceries and stuff, I try to get everything all at once,” said Marie Taggart. “I try and just limit the driving a little bit, because you’re on a budget, right?”