The Global Ecology Blog

Did you know that a faulty oxygen sensor can lower your mileage by 40 percent? It's easier than you think to avoid these common mishaps—and save money at the pump.

With the national average price of gas nearing $4 a gallon, drivers are feeling the sting, but there's no need to cancel your vacation. We sifted through mounds of data from the government, automotive consumer advocates, and car rental agencies to find out how to squeeze every last penny out of what you put in your tank. Here is what you need to know before your next summer driving adventure.

The Mistake: Driving Too Fast

Why it matters: While each car reaches its optimal fuel economy at different speeds, gas mileage typically decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. For every 5 mph you drive over 60 mph, you're paying an extra 24¢ per gallon for gas, according to fueleconomy.gov, the official U.S. government source for information on energy efficiency. Plus gas is consumed faster when accelerating hard.What to do: Try not to drive faster than 60 mph when on the highway. When around town or in traffic, avoid