Performance Parts That Can Save on Gas Costs

Getting better gas mileage is a goal for many drivers. Most people know that a few changes to their driving habits, such as accelerating more slowly and avoiding unnecessary stops, can help save gas. What you may not be aware of is that there are performance upgrades that you can make to your car to save even more fuel. The following are a few of the options available.

Upgrade your intake

The factory air intake on your car is designed to work quietly as opposed to efficiently. Upgrading to a more efficient intake ensures that your fuel is being oxygenated appropriately for peak performance. You can simply upgrade to a high-flow intake filter for a quick and inexpensive upgrade. For even higher performance, look into replacing your stock intake with a cold air system. These intakes have high flow filters and wide intake tubes so that they draw in cold air, which is denser in oxygen molecules.

Switch out the exhaust

Your exhaust system should pull fresh air and fuel charges into the cylinders, which improves gas mileage overall. Stock systems are designed to work at minimum performance because this is simply quieter. An high-flow system improves mileage but it does come at the expense of noise. The noise isn't necessarily overwhelming, simply consider the low rumble you hear when a high performance vehicle accelerates from a stoplight.

Try a high tech solution

Modern cars depend upon their computer systems to manage fuel and timing calibrations. Unfortunately, the factory settings for these don't always have high gas mileage in mind. Fortunately, you don't need to be a grease monkey to tune up your car for better performance. Instead, invest in a flash programmer. This tool hooks into the diagnostic port beneath your dashboard. You can then alter the shift points for your automatic transition and adjust the power of the vehicle to settings that consume less fuel.

Get some new wheels

Weight drags down your gas mileage, and, on many lightweight modern cars, an easy way to lose some pounds is in the tires. Use the smallest size of tire recommended for your make and model—don't opt for oversize tires because you think they look cool. Also, trade in your old steel wheels for some lightweight allow wheels. Not only will they look good, but they'll also help you save some on your fuel consumption.

For more help, contact a auto performance parts retailer like Yearwood Performance Center near you.

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