Tips to improve fuel economy as gas prices rise

UNDATED (WHDH) -- As gas prices rise many Americans are looking for ways to get their gas to go the extra mile. Experts say the most reliable way to track how much gas your vehicle is using is to change the way you drive.

“Aggressive driving is a terrible waster, it constitutes about a 30 percent drop in your fuel economy,” said Philip Reed of Edmunds.com.

Experts said driving efficiently pays off in mileage

“Stop rapid acceleration, excessive braking, particularly high speed lane changes are very destructive to your fuel economy,” said Reed.

Reed also said most cars run just fine on lower grade gasoline that can be a dime cheaper than premium. He also said proper tire pressure is a key to good fuel efficiency.

“We find that people are driving around with way under-inflated tires and this is a quick, easy, free way to boost your fuel economy,” said Reed.

Some experts said it is best to avoid gas stations at freeway exits because they often charge more than gas stations further off the freeway.

“Go down a couple blocks,” said Jeffrey Spring of AAA.

Experts also say drivers should plan better by combining errands instead of taking multiple trips out of the house.

(Copyright (c) 2012 Sunbeam Television Corp. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)