There is something magical about the internal combustion engine. Every time we get behind the wheel, twist the key, and step on the accelerator to hear it roar to life—we feel empowered. But there’s more beneath that hood than meets the eye, and unlocking fuel economy secrets can provide a huge advantage in keeping our vehicles running properly rather than burning money at every turn. In short, your fuel efficiency and mileage can be affected by how you drive and maintain your vehicle and the conditions in which you operate it. In this blog post, you’re going to learn about how your vehicle condition and driving habits affect gas mileage—so don’t miss out.
Short Trips Without Proper Warm-Ups
Short trips, especially if they are taken in cold weather, can be a major drag on your gas mileage. This is because short trips don’t allow the engine to warm up fully and reach its most efficient temperature. If you’re only taking short trips—keep in mind that it’s best to let your car idle for 3-5 minutes before driving to allow the engine to warm up. A report from the U.S. Department of Energy states that driving at a steady speed can improve your fuel economy by up to 33%.
Heavy Breaking and Acceleration
Did you know that every time you hit the brakes heavily, you’re actually wasting and reducing your car’s fuel efficiency? That’s because when you brake, your engine has to work against the laws of physics to slow down—which requires energy. The same goes for accelerating. So try and keep your speed consistent, anticipate traffic signals, and avoid heavy braking or acceleration whenever possible. On top of that, practical driving techniques like cruise control on the highway or turning off your engine at red lights can also help you save fuel.
Fuel Injector Problems
Speaking of fuel economy, one issue that can have a major impact is clogged fuel injectors. Fuel injectors are designed to spray fuel into the engine cylinders and create a mixture of air and fuel for combustion. When they become clogged with dirt or debris, it prevents the proper amount of fuel from entering the engine—causing misfires, lower power output, reduced fuel economy, and other issues. In short, you should have your fuel injectors regularly cleaned and inspected to keep them in good condition.
Poor Maintenance
Last but not least, regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle in peak condition—which has a direct correlation with mileage and fuel economy. Ensure you keep up with the manufacturer’s recommended oil changes and any other services or repairs required to maintain top performance. This includes things like the spark plug, air filter, and tire pressure replacements which can all have an effect on your vehicle’s efficiency.
Simply put, factors like the type of driving techniques you use, the condition of your vehicle, and the weather can all have a significant impact on your car’s gas mileage and fuel efficiency. Paying attention to these details can save you money in the long run, so keep all this in mind when you’re behind the wheel. You can always consult your local mechanic for tips and tricks to maximize fuel economy.