Fuel Efficiency Tips

Driving Habits That Save Fuel

• Maintain steady speeds: Use cruise control on highways to maintain a consistent speed.
• Avoid rapid acceleration and braking: Gentle acceleration and anticipating stops can improve fuel economy by up to 30%.
• Observe the speed limit: Fuel economy typically decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. Each 5 mph over 50 mph is like paying an additional $0.20 per gallon for gas.
• Reduce idling: Turn off your engine when parked for more than 30 seconds. Modern engines use less fuel starting up than idling for extended periods.
• Plan and combine trips: Several short trips from a cold start can use twice as much fuel as one longer trip covering the same distance.
• Use air conditioning wisely: At lower speeds, open windows have less impact on fuel economy than using A/C. At highway speeds, using A/C is typically more efficient than open windows.
• Remove excess weight: Every 100 pounds of unnecessary weight in your vehicle reduces fuel economy by about 1%.
• Reduce drag: Remove roof racks, cargo boxes, and bike racks when not in use to improve aerodynamics.

Maintenance Tasks That Improve Fuel Efficiency

• Keep tires properly inflated: Underinflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 PSI drop. Check tire pressure at least monthly.
• Use the recommended grade of motor oil: Using the manufacturer's recommended grade can improve fuel economy by 1-2%.
• Replace air filters regularly: A clean air filter can improve acceleration time and performance, especially in older vehicles.
• Keep the engine tuned: Fixing a serious maintenance issue, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve mileage by up to 40%.
• Check and replace spark plugs: Worn spark plugs can decrease fuel efficiency by up to 30%.
• Inspect the fuel system: Clogged fuel injectors and dirty fuel filters can significantly reduce fuel economy.
• Maintain wheel alignment: Misaligned wheels create drag and reduce fuel efficiency.
• Consider fuel system cleaning: Professional fuel system cleaning can remove deposits that affect performance and fuel economy.

Warning Signs of Poor Fuel Efficiency

• Sudden decrease in miles per gallon
• Engine running rough or stalling
• Difficulty starting the vehicle
• Check engine light illuminated
• Reduced power during acceleration

Choosing the Right Fuel for Your Vehicle

• Use the recommended octane: Using higher octane fuel than recommended provides no benefit and wastes money.
• Consider top-tier gasoline: These contain more detergent additives that can keep your engine cleaner.
• Fill up during cooler times: Gasoline is denser when it's cool, so you get more fuel for your money when filling up in the morning or evening.
• Don't overfill: Stop at the first click of the pump to avoid spills and evaporation.
• Check your gas cap: A damaged or loose gas cap allows fuel to evaporate.
• Consider fuel additives: Quality fuel system cleaners can help maintain fuel efficiency, especially in older vehicles.