How to Maximize Fuel Economy
Save money at the pump with simple maintenance habits and smarter driving.
Smart Driving: Habits That Save Gas
With fluctuating gas prices, maximizing every gallon is a top priority for most drivers. While you can’t control the price at the pump, you can control how efficiently your vehicle uses that fuel. Small changes in your driving style and vehicle maintenance routine can add up to significant savings over time.
Top Tips for Better MPG:
- Check Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires create more drag (rolling resistance). Keeping them properly inflated is the easiest way to improve mileage instantly.
- Drive Smoothly: Aggressive driving—rapid acceleration and hard braking—can lower your gas mileage by 15% to 30% at highway speeds. Accelerate gently.
- Reduce Excess Weight: An extra 100 pounds in your vehicle can reduce your MPG by up to 1%. Clear out the trunk and remove heavy items you don’t need.
- Stick to the Speed Limit: Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. Every 5 mph you drive over 50 mph is like paying an additional $0.30 per gallon for gas.
Maintenance Matters
A poorly maintained car is a thirsty car. Simple components like air filters and spark plugs play a huge role in combustion efficiency.
For example, replacing a clogged air filter can improve acceleration and mileage. Similarly, using the manufacturer’s recommended grade of motor oil can improve gas mileage by 1-2%. If your “Check Engine” light is on, get it diagnosed immediately—a faulty oxygen sensor alone can reduce mileage by up to 40%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does driving with the AC on really use more gas?
A: Yes, especially in stop-and-go traffic. The air conditioning compressor puts a load on the engine. However, at highway speeds, open windows create aerodynamic drag that can waste even more fuel, so AC is often the more efficient choice for highway driving.
Q: Can a dirty air filter hurt my fuel economy?
A: Absolutely. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, causing it to work harder and burn more fuel to maintain performance. Replacing a dirty filter is one of the cheapest ways to improve MPG.
Q: How does tire pressure affect gas mileage?
A: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to use more power to move the car. Keeping tires inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI is crucial for optimal fuel efficiency.
Stop Wasting Gas.
From air filters to tire checks, we help your car run as efficiently as possible. Schedule a fuel-saving maintenance check today.
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