As we continue to see nationwide inflation and record-breaking gas prices, it’s becoming increasingly important to keep fuel efficiency at the top of mind on the road. Although many people think gas mileage only pertains to the specific car you have, there are many other methods you can use to minimize your fuel consumption.
1) Get regular vehicle maintenance.
To make sure your car runs efficiently, you need to follow your manufacturer’s service interval and gas grade recommendations. Uniquely tailored to your vehicle’s needs, the owner’s manual specifications maximize how well your vehicle performs on a single gallon of gasoline.
2) Keep your filters clean.
Have your air, oil, and fuel filters been cleaned or replaced recently? Now may be the perfect time for a quick stop by the shop! Cleaned filters free of debris resistance prevent your vehicle from working too hard.
In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that a clogged filter in newer vehicles resulted in a 1.7% fuel economy decrease! Although that may not seem like a lot, these small savings really add up as you calculate your yearly gas expenses.
3) Schedule routine oil changes.
Old engine oil can produce a sort of sludge that creates excess drag and reduces your fuel efficiency. Scheduling an oil and filter change per your car manufacturer’s recommendations can have a significant positive impact on your gas consumption.
And don’t forget to use the proper engine oil! Most modern cars work best with thinner, low-viscosity, partially or fully synthetic oils that were created FOR fuel efficiency. But, be sure to read your owner’s manual to determine the oil your vehicle prefers.
4) Avoid speed fluctuation (as much as possible).
If your driving speed is always changing–say, in the heavy, stop-and-start Wilmington, NC traffic–you’ll see a major impact on your car’s fuel economy. Constant acceleration and deceleration simply eat away at your fuel supply.
As much as possible, try to take major roads and highways, maintain a consistent speed, and switch on your cruise control. By using your vehicle’s cruise control on major highways, you can set your traveling speed, eliminate speed fluctuations, and save a pretty penny on gas!
5) Minimize engine idling.
Avoid leaving your car turned on while parked. It can be tempting to turn on your car and wait five minutes for the heat or air to kick in, but you’d be surprised how much gas you waste just sitting idly in your car.
On average, a vehicle uses between one-fourth and one-half of a gallon of fuel for every hour spent idling!
These days, most new car engines come with a fuel-saving start-stop feature. Although it may seem annoying and you DO have the option to disable the feature, we suggest leaving it on in order to help conserve fuel. If you routinely stop for over one minute on your way to and from work–say, on South College, 3rd Street, or Market Street in Wilmington–the start-stop feature can earn you some impressive fuel savings.
6) Build better driving habits.
Wreckless, aggressive driving–like speeding, abrupt acceleration, and sharp braking–not only puts you and other drivers at risk, but it can also significantly decrease your fuel efficiency. Stick to the posted speed limits. Fuel economy standards reach maximum fuel efficiency at 50 mph, anyway!
7) Carry a lighter load.
The weight of your car and the air resistance created by anything attached to the outside of your vehicle have a notable impact on fuel use. Each pound of cargo you carry in your car increases your rate of fuel consumption. Plus, exterior attachments–like rooftop cargo racks–can cause a drag that requires your vehicle to work harder (and use more fuel) to get you around.
8) Buy the right tires.
The tire and wheel specifications in your car owner’s manual are NOT just suggestions! Aftermarket tires and wheels that differ in size and speed rating than the manufacturer ratings reduce car performance and fuel efficiency. Get the right tires and keep them inflated to the right levels.
It’s best to choose tires with low rolling resistance. According to a study at the University of Michigan Transportation Research Institute, the average driver can save $150 every year on fuel by switching to low-rolling-resistance tires.
Once you’ve picked adequate tires, keep them sufficiently inflated. Low tire pressure builds more rolling resistance and makes your car work harder. We recommend checking your tire pressure at least once a month.
9) Limit your AC use.
Although modern car air conditioning systems have become much more efficient, they still require a lot of power–and thus, fuel. Limiting the use of your car AC can do wonders for your fuel consumption!
How can you reduce AC use AND avoid overheating during hot Wilmington summers?
Here are some safe tactics:
- Park in shaded areas so your cabin stays cooler
- Use a windshield sunshade while parked during the day
- When you first drive, keep your windows down to allow hot air to escape the cabin. Once most of the hot air has filtered out, turn on your air conditioner.
- Switch off your AC when the car interior is cool enough.
- Set your automatic climate control at a higher temperature setting.
Performance Auto Specialists | Wilmington NC
At Performance Auto Specialists, we have the experience and expertise to assist you with all of your vehicle needs and questions–whether you have a luxury European car or domestic vehicle.
Have more questions about increasing your fuel efficiency? Call us at (910) 343-1650.
Time for your next routine maintenance check-up? We’re here to help!
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