That`s $1500 additional dollars needed just top drive something you already own (or making payments on).

Small changes in your driving habits can save you hundreds every year. It`s really not as difficult to increase your fuel mileage as you might think.

WANT TO KNOW HOW MUCH YOU`RE SAVING?
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Keep track of your mileage for one week (7 days) BEFORE you start implementing these gas saving tips. The following week, start practicing these tips and keep track of the mileage for another seven days.

Nothing elaborate. Use the re-setable odometer found in most vehicles or simply use a post-it note in your car. You might find yourself saving $5-$10 a week which works out to $260-$520 annually!

TEN GAS SAVING TIPS
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Here are ten short gas saving tips that you can start using today. Most of these tips can be immediately put into use and cost absolutely nothing! What can be better than saving money for FREE?

- Check Tires Regularly
Keep tires properly inflated to avoid premature wear and mileage loss. Under inflated tires can waste 5%-10% more fuel than needed.

- Maintain Car Momentum
If possible, scan the road ahead to anticipate when slowing will occur. Maintaining even a `crawl` will save you gallons as opposed to constantly stopping and going.

- Stop `n Go Traffic
Using the car air conditioning unit during heavy traffic can really `burn` up gas quickly. If it`s bearable, try to keep the windows or sunroof open for fresh air.

- Remove Unnecessary Weight
If possible, remove car racks and any items of considerable weight. You`d be surprised at what an extra 50-100lbs can do to your gasoline consumption rate.

- Keep Filters/Converters Clean
This can save you and your engine a lot of extra work. Most filters cost between $3-$15 and can be replaced without much work - especially the air filter.

- Higher Octane Gas
Do not benefit most cars. Only use the higher octane if your engine is starting to `ping` (engine knock)

- Cruise Control
Maintain an exact speed allowing for better fuel consumption. Effective on open highways.

- On Highways
If possible, try to keep windows and sunroofs closed especially at high speeds. Use the built in ventilation system for fresh air for optimum aerodynamics.

- PickUp Owners
Consider a `soft-net` type gate replacement to eliminate the "drag chute" effect. Extremely effective on freeways/highways.

- Purchase Gas On Indian Reservations
NO taxes on gas on the reserves. It might pay to fill up the next time you are near an Indian Reservation.

CONCLUSION
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Simple yet extremely effective, these tips can help you start saving money immediately off your gas bill.

Regardless of which gas saving tips you are able to use from this article, keep in mind that SAFETY is the most important concern on the road. NEVER jeopardize the safety of you or the other drivers around you at any time. . . period.