Drivers love to maximize fuel efficiency. If you find that your vehicle isn’t taking you as far as it used to between fill-ups, try these different ways to get more mileage out of it.
Skip the warmup.
Many drivers are in the habit of “warming up” their engine before heading out. This has some merit when it’s cold out and you want to warm
the interior of the car, but warming up the engine just because you can will only waste gas. The same can be said for idling. If you’re not going to be in your vehicle for an extended period of time, there is no reason to keep the engine running.
Rely on cruise control (when you can).
When you’re driving highway speeds, cruise control is a great way to extend your mileage. Of course, it’s really only effective if you are able
to drive at a consistent speed while avoiding the gas and brake pedals. It’s perfect for those longer trips but not so great for simply
running around town.
Cut the weight.
You might forget some hefty bags or other large items in the back of your vehicle and end up carrying them for days or weeks at a time. Or perhaps you have a bike you like to carry around on top of your car. However, having excess cargo weight hurts your fuel efficiency, and over time, it can really add up — between 5–10 miles per gallon, according to Consumer Reports. The bigger the item, the worse it gets!
Invest in regular checkups and maintenance.
Annual maintenance is a must to maximize fuel efficiency. This includes oil changes, air filter replacements, and even tire inflation checks. When these things are left unchecked, your fuel efficiency will start to drop. This is where turning to your trusted mechanic can make a difference!