There was talk, of course, of gas-saving gizmos installed on motors. To date, however, none of these have proven to be particularly effective. In fact, their only positive economic impact has been on their manufacturer's wallets!

Does that mean we have to give up and wait for the day when, hopefully, prices will once again become affordable? If you really believe that'll happen, chances are you also set a glass of milk and a few cookies under the Christmas tree on December 24th…

But what can we do to avoid spending the bulk of our income just to get around? There are a few tricks and, with the help of professional consultants, most drivers could effectively save up to 20% on their gas bills.

The first method, but not necessarily the most exciting, is to simply drive more slowly. Remember that the higher your speed, the more gas you'll consume during your outing. Maximum speed signs are posted everywhere. Read them well. Not only will respecting them make for a safer drive, they'll also save you a few pennies every kilometre of the way. In fact, not exceeding 100 km an hour on the highway could save you 15% on gas.

Planned braking, progressive acceleration and, mostly, the sparing use of air conditioning (an open window could early replace air conditioning when driving in the city) are all measures that could significantly reduce your gas consumption.

On the highway, however, you'll be better off using the air conditioning because, at higher speeds, an open window's drag factor could be more detrimental than economical. A speed of 50 km an hour is considered the turning point in this regard.

But while treating driving behaviour might help, more often than not, the true key to gas savings lies in a well-maintained vehicle whose components function at their peak of efficiency. A good mechanical tune-up can cut the excessive use of gas by close to 50% while ensuring that the vehicle will not suffer premature wear.

The inspection should start a monthly tire inspection, something every driver can do himself. In fact, you'll find every detail of this operation covered in a column published on the Mr. Muffler site a few weeks ago.

Another important point that should not be overlooked: regular wheel alignment. Poor wheel alignment can cause greater friction resulting in greater gas consumption. It is estimated that 37% of vehicles have poorly aligned wheels, accounting for more than 10% of excess gas consumption.

Every other aspect of proper regular maintenance also plays a role in reducing gas consumption. Oil change, filter change, inspection of fluids: all ensure proper engine performance, limit wear and, by the same token, reduce the risk of abusive consumption.

See to it that air and gas filters are clean. Replace them as needed. According to expert technicians, a new gas oxygen sensor can also reduce consumption by up to 15%.

Motor oil is one of the best available tools for ensuring an energy-efficient motor. Oil lubricates your vehicle's mobile parts, keeps friction to a minimum, and eliminates excess heat. The type of oil is also important. Some oils carry the mention “energy savings”. These oils favour energy savings by reducing gas consumption by at least 2.7% over regular types of oil.

The ignition system must be maintained as well to ensure optimal gas efficiency. Spark plugs ignite the motor's air-gas mix. If they are worn or dirty, the motor will misfire and gas will not burn completely, resulting in costly repairs and the needless use of that part of the gas, whose power will not be fully consumed.

Some of these inspections must be carried out by experts, since most people don't generally have the tools needed for the job. But that doesn't mean you don't have a part to play. A small inspection before taking to the road can correct some shortcomings. And remember that your car will not get to the garage by itself. You have to drive it there.

Contact your Mr. Muffler expert for complete information on our Copilot preventive maintenance program. An inspection will reassure you and help you…enjoy your summer!