Maximizing your car’s fuel efficiency isn’t just good for your wallet, it’s great for the environment, too! At KC Automotive, we understand the importance of getting the most out of every gallon of gas. Whether you’re looking to save money on your daily commute or improve your vehicle’s overall performance, small changes can make a big difference. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help you increase your car’s fuel efficiency and keep your vehicle running at its best.
What is a Good Fuel Efficiency?
The best way to check your fuel efficiency is by looking at your mileage per gallon, which you can usually find on the dashboard of your vehicle. However, each type of vehicle has a different optimal fuel efficiency. Trucks tend to be less fuel efficient than sedans, so good gas mileage for a truck might be bad for a sedan and vice versa.
Tips on How to Improve Your Car’s Fuel Efficiency
Weight of Your Car
The heavier your car, the less fuel-efficient it becomes because the engine has to work harder and use more gas to move the extra weight. If you’re in the habit of storing items like golf clubs, clothes, or other belongings in your car, those added pounds can affect your gas mileage. While individual items may seem light, together, they can weigh your car down. In fact, every additional 100 pounds can reduce your fuel efficiency by about 1%. Lighten the load and watch your fuel savings add up!
Speed
Driving the speed limit isn’t just safer—it’s also better for your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Once you exceed 50mph, your gas mileage decreases by about 7-14% for every additional 5 mph. By slowing down, you can save 26-51 cents per gallon, which can add up significantly over the course of a year. Small adjustments to your driving habits can lead to big savings at the pump!
Tire Pressure
Low tire pressure is an easy detail to overlook, but it plays a significant role in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, low tire pressure results in 1.25 billion gallons of wasted gasoline annually. On average, tires lose about 2 pounds of air each month, which can add up quickly if left unchecked. To maximize fuel efficiency, make it a habit to check and reinflate your tires monthly—many gas stations even offer this service for free!
No Idling
Avoid idling your car, as it burns fuel without moving, significantly reducing fuel efficiency. If you anticipate waiting in your car for more than 10 seconds, it’s better to turn off the engine rather than let it idle. This habit can be especially helpful in heavy traffic or while eating lunch in your car at work. In any situation, minimizing idling is a simple way to improve your vehicle’s fuel economy and save on gas.
Come into KC Automotive to Improve Your Car’s Gas Mileage
At KC Automotive, we’re here to help you get the most out of every mile. Whether it’s a tune-up, tire check, or other services to optimize your vehicle’s efficiency, our expert team is ready to assist. Stop by today and discover how we can improve your car’s gas mileage, save you money, and keep your vehicle running smoothly. Drive in now or call us to schedule your appointment!
