So, you want to get more MPG out of your vehicle?

Jason Brown-Gear Head/Eco-enthusiast

I'm going to start out with the easy stuff that anyone can do right now to conserve fuel consumption.

Start by reducing the weight in your vehicle. The more weight you're hauling around with you, the harder the engine has to work-resulting in more fuel being burned. Take out all of the stuff you don't absolutely need. For example, maybe its summer and you're still carrying your tire chains in the trunk. Kick 'em out 'til winter! Keep the basics in at all times!

Another quick tip is to make sure your tires are inflated at the proper pressure. Too much air and the tires will wear out to quickly-too little air and the car works harder to move. You want as little friction as possible so the car can flow on the road with minimal effort.  

For the eco-car enthusiasts, imagine a low-rider. That might sound a bit funny, but lowering your vehicle, allows less air to pass underneath the car which means less wind resistance-less wind resistance equals less fuel usage. This might not be an option if you live in certain areas, so plan ahead. JC Whitney sells coil springs lowering kits for $45 a pair and will work on pretty much any vehicle without any cutting, welding or heating. Visit http://www.jcwhitney.com to find out more.

Remember, keep the RPMs down! This is easier if you have a manual transmission. If you shift a little earlier that means lower

RPMs-lower RPMs means the engine isn't moving as fast. A slower engine means less fuel consumption. Driving more conservatively will also save you more fuel. Don't worry about trying to get ahead of the pack, if someone wants to pass you, let them. They're the ones burning excess gas.

Keep your engine compartment clean. Make sure the inside is as free of dirt, dust, oil, grime and grease. Pay special attention to the engine block. All that dirt and grime acts as an insulator and will make it run hotter and less efficient. Making sure your car has its lube service performed regularly which will help for better fuel efficiency.

Here is some easy tips that everyone can do right now. Some of these modifications might cost some money, but with the fuel you'll save, your investments will pay for themselves. Minor performance upgrades will increase the fuel efficiency of your vehicle. Research your vehicles make and model to learn what modifications would best suite your vehicle. The idea here is you want your engine running as smoothly as possible.