Almost everyone who uses a smartphone relies on Google Maps to find their way. However, did you know that this app is not just a tool for reaching your destination but can also help you save money? Often, drivers get fined for speeding, or their vehicles burn extra fuel while stuck in heavy traffic after taking a suboptimal route. Google Maps offers specific settings that, when enabled, can help you save time, fuel, and money.

1. Turn on the Speedometer: Avoid speeding fines
On highways or city roads, drivers often lose track of speed limits, leading to instant fines from traffic cameras. Google Maps includes a built-in speedometer and speed limit display feature.

2. Choose Eco-Friendly Routes: Save fuel
Google Maps uses an AI-driven algorithm to suggest routes that minimize fuel consumption. This feature selects the most economical route by considering factors like inclines, traffic jams, and stop-and-go traffic.

How to enable: Go to 'Navigation Settings' and enable the 'Prefer fuel-efficient routes' option.
Benefit: It suggests routes that allow for steady driving speeds. This reduces the need for sudden braking and acceleration, directly cutting fuel consumption by 10–15%.

3. Avoid Tolls and Check Toll Prices: Save on extra toll expenses
When embarking on long journeys, we often inadvertently take routes with expensive toll plazas. Google Maps displays estimated toll costs, allowing you to decide which route to take. You can even choose a toll-free route if you prefer.

How to enable: Go to 'Route Options' within your navigation settings. Select 'Avoid tolls' or enable 'See toll pass prices'. Benefit: You will know the toll costs for various routes before starting your journey, allowing you to choose a cheaper or toll-free route based on your preference.

4. Offline Maps: Never lose your way, even without the internet
Google Maps often stops working in areas with no network or while driving in the mountains, leading to wasted fuel and time if you get lost. Offline maps are a highly useful feature in such situations.

How to use: Search for the city or area you are visiting, then go to the profile icon, select 'Offline Maps,' and download the map in advance.
Benefit: Navigation will continue uninterrupted without requiring mobile data or an internet connection.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from TV9. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.