9 ways to save money while driving

If you've filled up a gas-powered vehicle at the pump lately, you might be thinking about ways to get the most out of that pricey tank of fuel.

As gas prices and inflation continue to soar on P.E.I., CBC News sought advice from P.E.I.'s Director of Sustainability Derek Ellis, CAA Atlantic's Steve Olmstead and driving instructor Joe Byrne about how to save money while driving. 

For those who want or need to continue driving, there are plenty of ways to save money that can add up — one of the most important being to slow down.

Driving no faster than the posted speed limit, which on P.E.I. is usually 90 to 100 km/h, will save on fuel, our experts said. 

"Anything below that, where we can, is a great idea in terms of saving fuel," Olmstead said.

Accelerating gradually from a stop rather than punching the pedal is also a big gas-saver. In fact, it's number one on the federal government's list of tips of fuel-efficient driving techniques. 

"To be as fuel-efficient as possible, take five seconds to accelerate your vehicle up to 20 kilometres per hour from a stop. Imagine an open cup of coffee on the dashboard. Don't spill it!" the site says. 

If your car is newer and displays a fuel economy readout as you drive, Ellis said you'll soon see how much gas you're wasting on accelerating quickly. He uses this feature in his vehicle to "play a game where you're keeping that number, that's measured in litres per 100 kilometres, as low as possible while you drive." 

Olmstead suggests not only starting out slower from a stop but also coasting to stops when it's safe. 

Having the right amount of air in your car's tires can be another big fuel-saver. Find the right number for your car's tires posted on your car's door or in your owner's manual, and add air at a gas station. 

Invest in a manual tire pressure gauge and check tires at least with the change of seasons, Ellis said. Byrne also does a visual inspection of his tires daily. 

Remember to check tire pressure when tires are cooler, at the beginning of an outing. 

Check and maintain fluids like coolant and oil in your car, and maintain the engine, battery and transmission for optimal fuel consumption, Byrne said. 

Switching winter tires out for spring ones at the right time will improve fuel consumption by reducing rolling resistance, Olmstead said.