What Affects Gas Mileage? 7 Tips On Improving Fuel Efficienc

by DEAN FORSTER

If you knew what affects gas mileage, then you will have a better chance of controlling your fuel consumption and minimizing your travel expenses. With the situation concerning fuel prices practically in the red, what you don't know, particularly in relation to gas mileage, will hurt you. To get a better understanding of what affects your fuel efficiency and what you can do to improve it, read on.

1. Car tune-up. An automobile in poor condition guzzles up more fuel than a well-maintained one. If the engine needed tuning up, it could waste as much as 20 percent of the car's fuel. Spark plugs that are in poor condition, malfunctioning fuel systems and problems with emission controls can also affect gas mileage and consequently add to your fuel costs.

2. Tire condition. Tires that are not properly inflated use up more energy to roll, translating to further need for fuel fill-ups. Ask the manufacturer the recommended pressure for your car. Each model and type has its own ideal level of pressure for better rolling resistance.

3. Cooling system maintenance. If the cooling thermostat is constantly in the open position, then the engine will be made to work harder; further subtracting from engine efficiency and gas mileage.

4. Load and cargo. The heavier the vehicle, the more energy needed for its movement and the more gas it would use. Try to minimize the cargo of your automobile. Check the contents and weed out what you don't need. In short, don't try to make your car your closet. Better leave heavy, unnecessary baggage behind.

5. Driving habits. Constant hard breaking, grinding the accelerator pedal and speeding all contribute to increased fuel consumption. Try not to rush and mentally plan your way ahead. Driving over the limit, particularly in highways, decreases gas mileage. Proper driving habits can help save fuel and keep you reasonably safe.

6. Gearing. As much as possible, use the highest gear while in a steady pace. Using the highest gear while cruising on a highway will help improve gas mileage. Automobiles with automatic transmission do provide sterling performance, but this mode will keep you longer in a lower gear, thus effectively decreasing fuel efficiency.

7. Engine idling. If you need to stop and wait before driving again, turn off the engine. Unnecessary idling, or keeping the automobile running without going anywhere, consumes a lot of fuel. Shut down the engine if the wait will last for at least 10 minutes to conserve fuel.

Paying attention to what affects gas mileage can help save fuel and improve efficiency. Care and maintenance of automobile and proper driving habits not only help save gas, they also keep you safe and help your automobile lasts longer.

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