(NC) The warm weather is here, meaning it's time to get ready for a road trip. With so many exciting destinations across the country, local getaways have never been more popular.

You can save money and help protect the environment from excessive fuel emissions on your next road trip by following some simple tips.

“Following your vehicle manufacturer's scheduled maintenance guide is paramount for maintaining fuel efficiency,” explains Darryl Croft, automotive expert at OK Tire. “Items like your ignition and emissions systems can affect fuel economy.”

Here are some other things to consider:

Smooth operator. Consistently slowing down and speeding up is a major contributor to unnecessary fuel consumption. Applying a light throttle and avoiding sudden braking will help you conserve fuel and prevent excessive damage to your vehicle over time. Planning a route that will reduce the need for stopping and starting can really pay off.

Under pressure. Under-inflated tires can increase your fuel consumption, so check tire pressure once every week or two to ensure they are inflated correctly. If the steering feels odd, you should also check your tire pressure. Some vehicles come equipped with an onboard tire pressure sensing system, or TPMS. If you're unsure of what your pressure should be, consult your vehicle manufacturer's specifications for tire pressure, which can be found in the owner's manual, gas tank flap or inside the driver's side door.

Lighten your load. It may seem obvious, but the heavier your car is the more fuel it will consume significant on a long trip. Removing roof racks and keeping windows and sunroofs closed will also help reduce drag. Plan ahead and pack only the essentials to improve fuel economy and lower emissions.

Tune it up. Routine maintenance includes oil changes, spark plug replacements, air filter, and more. These tweaks can go a long way towards saving you money at the pumps. If it's been a while since your last appointment, bring your vehicle in for a check-up before you take off on that road trip.

Bad vibrations. Feeling a vibration in your steering wheel? This could be a symptom of improperly balanced tire and wheel alignment. When wheels are misaligned, your tires will drag instead of rolling smoothly. This can cause tires to wear out quickly and unevenly, increasing your fuel consumption. The alignment should be checked by a certified automotive technician at least once a year or more if needed.

Find more information about automotive services at www.oktire.com.

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