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Based on AAA, the average daily price for a gallon of gasoline in the United States was $4.31 as of March 10. Average diesel prices are even higher at $5.05 per gallon. Both numbers are all-time highs, and for our friends across the pond, prices are even higher – very higher in some cases. We can’t help you with fuel costs, but maybe we can help you go further with the tank.
You’ve probably heard all kinds of fuel-saving tips, but we don’t want to just pass along empty information without authoritative context. Motor1.com contact Mia Bevacqua, a veteran ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician who is also the Chief Mechanical and Technical Writer at CarParts.com. He knows his way around vehicles very well, and he kindly shares some simple steps that can pay off at the pump.
Maintain Vehicle Maintenance
This is arguably the most heard tip, but the most often overlooked. This is also Bevacqua’s main emphasis above all else. “Don’t ignore the check engine light,” he said. “Modern engines run on state-of-the-art computer systems; even if the car is running well, faulty sensors can hurt your economy.” Beyond that, the basics like clogged fuel filters and air filters can interfere with your pump, and let’s not forget other aspects of the car. Sticky brakes and misaligned steering increase rolling resistance, and with that, fuel consumption.
Keep Your Tires Inflated Properly
This can get into vehicle maintenance, but it deserves special attention because it is a very easy fix that is often overlooked. “Fuel mileage can decrease 0.4 percent from underinflated tires by just one psi,” explains Bevacqua. “Tires that go down more than that, the losses can add up quickly.” The recommended pressure obviously differs by vehicle, but it’s important to follow the automaker’s recommendations as opposed to the maximum pressure printed on the tires.
Get Rid of Extra Weight
Pulling out all passenger seats before crossing the quarter mile on the drag strip is a ritual for performance connoisseurs, but the Bevacqua reminds us that lighter weight also uses less fuel. “If you keep things in your car, take them out. Take them somewhere, donate them. The more you carry, the more fuel you’ll use.”
Turn off the air conditioner
This can be difficult for those living in warm climates, but drastic times call for drastic action. “The AC compressor runs the engine; it creates a parasitic load that can reduce fuel economy,” says Bevacqua. There’s a double hit here, as lowering the windows also reduces mileage due to aerodynamics. Some solutions include using blinds to keep the car cool throughout the day, and most climate control systems have basic ventilation that draws in outside air without using air conditioning. It won’t be cold, but it’s still a breeze.
Aerodynamic Problems – Missing Roof Rails And Storage Box
When it comes to aerodynamics, there’s a reason automakers are interested in talking about drag coefficient on their latest electric models. Better aero means less power is required to propel the air, using less fuel. On SUVs or vehicles with roof rails, Bevacqua recommends removing them when not in use, especially if a large cargo box is involved.
Go Easy On Throttle
This is a plausible item, but it’s worth repeating. If you need an additional reason to no give in to road rage, now is the time. “Nice and smooth is the way,” explains Bevacqua. “Put gently on the throttle, and for every 5 mph you go under 50 mph, your mileage increases. You can’t really go 50 mph on the highway in most places, but staying at the speed limit or slightly under is the way to go.” best to go.”
Future plan
It’s not really a driving tip like a life hack, but there’s a reason shipping companies spend so much money on logistics. If you can plan a route for Saturday’s errands that cuts a mile off your commute, that’s a mile saved for something else. Hitting key areas outside of peak hours certainly helps too, and if your COVID rules allow, don’t wait in the drive-thru lane with the engine idle. Bevacqua reminds us that parking and getting in will save quite a bit of fuel.
Don’t Turn Off For A Short Stop
Limiting the drive-thru to running food for five minutes is fine, but in what areas no To do so, Bevacqua does not recommend turning off while sitting at a traffic light or other traffic situation. It’s fine in a car equipped with start/stop technology, but any potential gains in fuel consumption are offset by wear and tear on systems not designed for such things.
Don’t Use Fuel Lower Than Recommended Octane
Fuel prices are at record highs, and the high-octane premium grade is the most expensive of all. It may be tempting to go with lower grade fuel, but Bevacqua says to always use the grade recommended by the manufacturer. “Increasing the octane generally won’t get you better miles per gallon, but lowering it may be a pain because the engine computer will adjust the ignition timing to match the fuel, and that can result in lower fuel economy.”
Don’t Pull The Engine At Very Low Revs
Here’s one for the manual transmission crowd, and if you’re paddling yourself, you may be guilty of it. Do not drag the engine at very low RPM in high gear. Running the engine too low can do more harm than good; Bevacqua reminds us that “smooth and steady” when driving is the key to getting the best mileage. That goes for the old Ford Mustang, or the latest Toyota Prius hybrid.
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