As gas prices increase, getting more miles out of your gas is becoming more critical to help your wallet. Older cars are usually less fuel efficient, affecting how you fill your tank. If you cannot get a more efficient hybrid or electric car, follow the tips below to learn how to get better gas mileage.
Tune up your car
Clogged fuel filters, clogged air filters, and dirty oil can affect your car’s fuel economy. You must get a tune-up from an excellent mechanic. In line with this, also ensure that engine lights are checked. Most times, engine lights can affect your miles per gallon. Check your fuel injector, EGR valve, or oxygen sensor, as they can reduce fuel economy.
Reduce speeds
Driving faster works your engine harder, which burns more fuel. Aside from increasing your chances of getting a ticket when you speed, not speeding improves your fuel economy by 7% to 14%. Drive slower where it is safe to do so. It helps you get better gas mileage, which also helps you save money at the pump.
Consider fuel additives
Octane boosters might not always be necessary. However, using fuel-cleaning additives enhances your gas mileage. Using any of these products on your trip, the gas pump keeps impurities and sediments that accumulate in your tank from clogging the fuel injector.
Reduce idling
Your car burns more gas during stop-and-go driving or when idling than when you constantly move. When stuck in traffic, it is best to turn off your engine and then restart it when you begin to drive again. This helps you save fuel. A good tip is to turn off your engine if it is idle for over 10 seconds.
Check tire pressure
It is crucial you check your tire pressure and properly inflate your tires. Aside from ensuring traction and a good grip on the road, it also helps enhance gas mileage. An underinflated tire reduces gas mileage by about 0.2%, which can quickly add up when driving between fill-ups. Ensure that you have a pressure gauge in your glove compartment, and refer to your owner’s manual to know the recommended tire pressure for your vehicle.
Consider using cruise control
Many modern cars are equipped with cruise control. You should use this feature when driving on the highway or in other places with less stop–and–go traffic. The cruise control feature keeps your car at a steady speed.
Watch the RPM
Many drivers don’t look at their tachometer. The tachometer informs you of the number of revolutions per minute (RPM) your engine creates. A low number, typically below 3,000 RPMs if possible, helps you enhance gas mileage since you are not burning much fuel. Additionally, the eco-mode, in most cars, automatically prevents your engine from revving very high and accelerating very quickly. Use it whenever you drive to get a good gas mileage.
Endnote
You can maintain the engine’s fuel efficiency by regularly servicing your car. Since engine parts work in tandem, poor maintenance can result in corrosion and sludge building up between the parts, making it hard for the engine to work smoothly. The tips above can help you maximize fuel usage for your car.