How To Increase Your Vehicle’s Fuel Efficiency

Few people look forward to visiting the gas pump. Depending on the size of your vehicle, a single trip can cost over $50. Making matters worse, if you’re a regular commuter, weekly trips may be the norm. With that in mind, any opportunity to shave your monthly fuel expense can keep more than a few dollars in your pocket.

Fortunately, there are plenty of things you can do that will improve the fuel efficiency of your car, truck, or SUV. Below, you’ll learn how simple, routine maintenance can play a key role in lowering the amount you pay at the pump. I’ll also describe a few easy-to-implement driving habits that will further reduce your fuel bill.

Tires And Other Maintenance Items

If your tires are underinflated, more energy is required to turn the wheels and move your car. You may not notice the effect while driving, but the U.S. Department Of Energy (DOE) estimates that it reduces your gas mileage by up to 3.3%. Look within your owner’s manual to find the proper psi and keep your tires inflated according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Simple maintenance items have a large influence on your engine’s efficiency. You should replace your air filter, spark plugs, and fuel filter whenever they become dirty, clogged, or fouled. Also, use a motor oil with an appropriate viscosity given the weather and the conditions in which you drive.

Besides routine maintenance, your driving habits will also play a significant role in improving your car’s gas mileage.

Start Slow, Then Coast

You have observed this firsthand; you may even do it yourself. A red traffic light turns green, and a few drivers punch their gas pedals as if they’re competing in NASCAR. Under these circumstances, they are forcing their engines to generate enormous levels of energy to propel their vehicles forward. That dramatically reduces your gas mileage.

When you accelerate, do so slowly. Once you have reached your desired speed, maintain it by coasting along rather than alternating between your gas and brake pedals. That allows your car’s computer to precisely control the amount of fuel sent to the combustion chambers. The result is higher efficiency.

Extend Your View

Related to the above tip, get into the habit of looking down the road to anticipate upcoming stops. Instead of accelerating and quickly braking, allow your automobile to gain speed slowly and coast into stops. Not only will that improve your mileage, but it’s easier on your brake pads and rotors.

Be Less Aggressive On The Road

Slow down on the highways. Too often, motorists will drive at 80 mph and above, thinking they’ll arrive at their destination more quickly. At most, the higher speed will save a few seconds. The problem is that most vehicles have a fuel efficiency “sweet spot” between 60 and 65 mph. The DOE estimates that each additional 5 mph above 60 mph is the equivalent of paying an extra $.24 a gallon.

Car engines are being designed with better technology each year. However, their efficiency is still highly dependent on factors you control. Implement the tips above to help your vehicle’s engine yield better gas mileage while you’re on the road.

No related posts.