Gas prices aren’t going down for now. Unless we finally get some miracle fuel or develop cold-fusion, we’ll still be using gas in our cars. However, proper car care and some alternatives are available to shave off pump dollars. Here are 15 ideas to save you gas.

1. Inflate your tires properly. Improper inflation can cost you both gas and your tires.
2. Check your wheel-alignment too to ensure that your car properly grips the road.
3. Check your brake pads and discs. Replace or adjust them if they are sticking.
4. Check your spark-plugs if they are set correctly or if they have any dirt or corrosion on them. Have them repaired if necessary.
5. Check your air filter if they’re dirty and scheduled for replacement. Fuel efficiently burns if the right amount air gets in the engine.
6. Check if your idling is in the proper setting. Consult your car’s manual for the number or the way to adjust it.
7. Check your fuel lines for leaks. Leaks mean, well, you’re spilling gas.
8. Get and oil change and a tune-up. Keeping your engine in tip-top shape helps it be on optimum fuel efficiency.
9. Leave any unnecessary stuff behind. Added weight puts unnecessary burden to your engine. While many would advise to leave your spare tire, I would just leave home without one.
10. Get into higher gear as soon possible. While newer models now have improved fuel control systems, most are still built to use more gas in the lower gear.
11. Avoid flooring it. The faster you go, the more wind resistance you have to overcome, hence more gas is needed.
12. Avoid tailgating. Tailgating would have you braking hard which also affects fuel consumption.
13. Think twice about that “super” engine fuel. Your car may not need it. Just go by the one that matches your car’s recommended octane rating.
14. Turn off the engine only if you’re stopping long enough. Starting the engine uses the same fuel as two minutes of idling (depending on engine size). So don’t think about turning it off at a stop sign.
15. Trade that SUV with a sedan. Why do you need a gas-guzzler anyway? If your needs do not require a vehicle with a large engine, consider getting a decent-sized and powered car.
16. Walk. If you don’t have to bring a car, walk. It’s good exercise.