6 Ways to Improve Your Fuel Efficiency

No matter how far you’re driving, it’s best to improve your fuel efficiency however you can. This will save you money in the long run on gasoline and maintenance, which can be significant over the lifespan of your vehicle. Our experts have compiled a few tips and tricks to help you improve your vehicle’s fuel economy  – That’s the Executive Way.

Inspect Your Tires

There are two aspects to your tires that can affect fuel economy: the treads and the tire pressure. Double-check that your tire treads aren’t too worn down. Not only is this dangerous – it can lead to slipping – but good tread also helps your vehicle drive more efficiently. Making sure your tires are properly inflated also contributes to fuel economy. It’s especially important to check tire pressure in the spring and fall when the temperature changes rapidly.

Clean Out Your Car

Every extra pound of weight in your vehicle decreases its fuel economy. So if there’s something in your vehicle that you don’t need – a package you keep forgetting to send out, sports equipment that’s out of season, or remnants from your last move – take it out. It can have a surprising effect on your vehicle’s fuel economy Bonus: you’ll have more room!

This also applies to any attachments to the outside of your vehicle. Roof racks and trailers, for example, cause considerable wind resistance, which makes your engine work that much harder. Taking these attachments off when they’re not in use can reduce your vehicle’s drag and increase your fuel economy.

Don’t Speed on the Highway

Many vehicles are designed to operate most efficiently at 60mph. According to data from the EPA, fuel economy drops by about 1 mile per gallon for every mile per hour you drive over 60. So if your vehicle is listed as getting 40mpg highway, it’s only getting ~25mpg if you drive at 75mph.

Coast to a Stop

When you have to slow down while driving, try to coast rather than apply the brakes. Not only does this reduce wear on your braking system, but it is also a more efficient use of gas. If you know that there’s a stop ahead (or you’re taking an offramp on the highway), accelerating or maintaining your speed and then braking is just wasting gas. By coasting and letting your vehicle slow down naturally, you can save gas.

Check Your Gas Cap Seal

Over time, the rubber seal of your gas cap can deteriorate or wear out, which can cause fuel to evaporate. It’s not good for the atmosphere, and it’s not good for your savings – that’s money going right out the window. Make sure the seal is intact and in good shape to keep your gasoline in the tank where it belongs. Luckily, the gas cap is often inexpensive and is easy to replace.

Preventative Maintenance

Keeping your vehicle in peak condition is essential for good fuel economy. Get regular oil changes, replace your air filter, and make sure your spark plugs are all in working order. The expert team at Executive Auto Body can help you maintain your vehicle with manufacturer-approved tools, parts, and more. Schedule your appointment at an Executive Auto Group Service Center today.