Recently, it seems like the oil barons are out to empty our wallets. Gas prices have gone up threefold, along with everyday necessities, while our economy slows to a crawl. Most people are just trying to keep their heads above water, and need to learn some simple methods to improve gas mileage.

There are several methods that help to improve gas mileage, some of them that are very effective, and others that really don't make too much of a difference. It can be a bit of a pain trying to sift through them all, so I have gone to the trouble of finding the most common methods people are using right now to improve gas mileage, so I could pass them on to you.

First off, change your engine oil frequently, and get a tuneup. Nearly everyone knows that if your car is running properly, it will expend less energy than if it is bogging down because of mechanical problems. Basic things like installing a new air filter, changing cracked hoses, and regular oil and oil filter changes using the right weight oil with friction reducers can all improve gas mileage.

Another trick that works well, is getting rid of extra weight your car is carrying. Do away with luggage racks, since they create resistance, and decrease your gas mileage. Keeping your tires inflated to the maximum recommended pressure can also help to decrease resistance, the MPG gain is fairly small, but every little bit will help!

Another way to improve gas mileage is by exercising some self control. Drive at slower speeds. Try cruising on the highway at 55 mph, instead of 65 or 70. That will increase your gas mileage by as much as 25%. Keep in mind that also includes no speeding when the "police" aren't looking! You can also gain 14% in MPG just by using your car's cruise control.

Also, resist the impulse to drive like a maniac, like constantly slamming on your brakes or quickly accelerating. All that does is burn up valuable fuel and waste your dollars. The same goes for excessive idling. If you have a long wait at a drive through, or at the bank, shut your car down. Cutting back on unnecessary idling has been shown to improve gas mileage by as much as 19%. That is a pretty darn big savings if you think about it, just for remembering to do something simple like shut your car down instead of idling.

There are many simple ways to improve gas mileage, and not enough time to cover them all at once! But remember, if you implement even one of these methods you will save money.