Fuel efficiency tips to save money at the pump this fall

With fall nearly here and gas prices continuing to soar, drivers and their gas dollars aren't going nearly as far as they used to. To help, 3M Car Care offers fuel saving tips to help stretch your gas dollar.

"Over the life of a car, poor fuel efficiency can lead to hundreds, if not thousands of dollars in added expense," said Greg Klausen, business manager, 3M Car Care products. "Properly maintaining the vehicle and watching your driving style are two of the best ways to maximize fuel efficiency and reduce long-term expenses."

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Here are six tips to maximize your car's fuel performance:

1. Check tire pressure: Improperly inflated tires can greatly reduce fuel economy, so make sure tires are inflated to the manufacturer's recommended pressure. The correct tire pressure will also provide a safer ride and help reduce tire wear.

2. Let your engine breathe: Replacing a dirty, clogged air filter will go a long way in improving fuel efficiency. According to the federal government, a car's gas mileage could improve by as much as 10 percent with a clean air filter. In addition to the fuel savings, the new filter will help protect the engine.

3. Keep the fuel system clean: Carbon and resin buildup in a car's fuel system reduces fuel efficiency. Flush out the fuel system, including the fuel injector, intake valve and combustion chamber with a specialized tank additive, such as Complete Fuel System Cleaner from 3M. You can also have the fuel system professionally cleaned by shops that use the complete Intake System Cleaning Kit from 3M. Keeping the fuel system clean helps you maximize your engine's performance and extend the life of the engine.

4. Take it easy and slow down: Driving a car at a high speed, "jackrabbit starts" and aggressive driving in traffic can greatly reduce fuel efficiency. The U.S. Department of Energy says, "As a rule of thumb, you can assume that each 5 mph you drive over 60 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas." And every time you "hit the gas" you get closer to the next refill.

5. Remove excess weight: Remove any unnecessary, heavy objects in the vehicle. An extra 100 pounds can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 2 percent.

6. Use air conditioning sparingly: Don't just run the air conditioner out of habit as the weather cools off. If it's not too hot out, try using the fan setting alone or put down the windows and enjoy the fall sunshine. This helps get more miles per gallon.

The 3M Car Care product line can be found at leading automotive aftermarket retailers and online through select distributors. For more car care tips or information on 3M Car Care products, visit www.3Mcarcare.com.