Should I take the extra seats out of my mini van to save on gas?

Question

My husband is going on a short business trip and he has chosen to drive instead of fly so that I can go with him. We will be driving a 2003 Dodge Caravan approximately 1200 miles round trip. So, would it help with gas mileage if we removed the 3 person bench seat and two individual seats from the rear of the van? Thanks!

Answer 1

you will save about 45 cents on gas per year. not worth it.

Answer 2

Any weight you can lose from the van will help gas mileage.  Less weight means less work for the engine.  I am not sure of how much.  I am guessing that the seats weigh about 150lbs. total, which makes me think it will save a good bit of gas.

Answer 3

Yes, take them out.

Inflate the tires to the maximum listed on the side walls.  Be certain the air filter is clean.  Use the air conditioner sparingly.    Dump in a container of injector cleaner when you fill up the gas tank.  I recommend Techron by Chevron.  

Not related to gas mileage, apply Rain-X to the front and side windows.  Visability is vastly improved in the rain.  Wipers will not be needed.  Amazing to see for the first time as the rain just sleets off the windows.

Drive smoothly and stay close to the speed limit.  Cruise control is a must.

Good Luck and Safe Trip