Six easy ways to save gas this summer

The summer driving season is here, again – and so are high gas prices, again. While you won’t be able to control gas prices, there are a few simple things you can do to control your car’s fuel efficiency. The team of mechanics at AutoMD.com has put together a list of six things almost anyone can do to stretch those gas dollars:

- Ray Cox, Contributor

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In this May 27, 2011, photo, a customer fuels up his car in Philadelphia. By checking the gas cap for a broken seal and putting it on tightly, you can avoid losing up to 2 percent on mileage. (Matt Rourke/AP/File)

1. Replace/tighten your gas cap

Every time you stop to fill your tank, check the gas cap seal for damage and make sure your gas cap is tightened when you finish. Fuel evaporates through a loose cap or a damaged seal, reducing your gas mileage by as much as 2 percent and potentially allowing contaminants and dirt to enter the fuel system. Escaped fuel fumes can also pollute the air, so taking the time to inspect your gas cap can not only save you money over the lifetime of your car, but it can be good for the environment. On all newer vehicles, a leaking gas cap will cause the “Check Engine” light to stay on. If you discover that your gas cap is indeed broken or leaking, you will want to replace it immediately. Your local auto supply store carries gas caps for most vehicles.