Driving techniques can help reduce gas consumption

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With gas prices approaching $4 a gallon across most of the country, many drivers are struggling to fill their tanks without breaking the bank. To help consumers save money on fuel, Minneapolis' KSMP-TV has offered some gas saving tips that can reduce motorists' trips to the pump.

The process of maximizing fuel efficiency, known as hypermiling, can help a car get the most miles per gallon. While unusual, the news station said wind conditions can have a surprising influence on gas mileage. The source said motorists should try to drive with tailwinds if possible and to avoid getting behind the wheel at all on an especially windy day.

Another tip that may surprise some drivers is placing cardboard over the radiator while driving in order to keep the engine warm. Warmer engines are more fuel efficient, reported the station, although drivers should be sure to remove the cardboard if the vehicle is in danger of overheating.

Driving habits make a difference

Anyone used to slamming on their brakes should try to quit the habit, as it can waste a considerable amount of fuel. The harder a driver breaks, the harder they will have to accelerate, burning more gas than necessary. Keeping a generous space between cars can reduce the need to ride the brakes, according to the source, which recommended that drivers take their foot off the gas and simply coast to a stop whenever possible.

Using a vehicle's cruise control system can also save gas. The setting keeps speed steady, reducing the waste that comes with needlessly speeding up and then slowing down again. According to Edmunds.com, using cruise control can save up to 14 percent of fuel, which could lead to a substantial savings over the course of a long trip.

Resisting the urge to speed can also be a money saver in more ways than one. Besides reducing the chance of getting hit with an expensive speeding ticket, the Consumer Energy Center reports that the average vehicle loses fuel economy once it goes over 55 miles per hour. Slowing down from 75 miles per hour to 55 can reduce costs by up to 25 percent.

Some Americans are turning in their gas guzzlers for more fuel-efficient models to avoid expensive fill-ups. According to the Wall Street Journal, Kelley Blue Book reported that in February 81 percent of car shoppers said the price of gas influenced their vehicle choices, up 11 percent from January. Out of those, 40 percent said they were buying a smaller car to save money.

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