We all want to try and save a little money at the pumps and we also want our cars to be performing their best. When it comes to fuel economy, these two goals go hand in hand. If you don’t seem to be getting the overall gas mileage you desire, there can be several reasons why. It may be a mechanical issue or your personal driving habits. Here are some items and suggestions to increase your gas mileage.
Tire Pressure
If your tires are not at the correct air pressure, you will lose fuel economy. This is the case if they are underinflated, overinflated or each tire has a different pressure. The panel inside your driver’s side door will show you the ideal air pressure. Do not go based on the “max pressure” as listed on the tires themselves.
Air Filter
If your air filter is old and dirty, the engine won’t get the right amount of clean air it needs to burn the fuel. Air filters are inexpensive and easy to replace.
Spark Plugs
Your spark plugs provide the combustion within in your engine. If they are misfiring or not working properly, your fuel economy will definitely be affected.
Fuel System
A bad fuel injector or dirty/old fuel filter can drastically affect the flow of fuel into the engine. A fuel system problem is one of the most common causes of poor gas mileage.
Driving Habits
Your own driving habits also make a difference. If you are a very aggressive driver and like to accelerate quickly, go fast and/or rev your engine, you are burning more fuel. Drive sensibly if you want to conserve gas.
Excessive Idling
When your car is parked, you don’t have to let your car idle so long. Most cars don’t need more than 30 seconds to warm up in the morning and if you are sitting in your car running the engine while parked or waiting to pick someone up, it’s just wasting fuel. Turn your car off or put it in neutral unless you absolutely need the engine running.