How to boost your car’s fuel-efficiency?

diesel car

Making your car more fuel-efficient does not only help you save a substantial amount of money, it can also reduce carbon emissions and contribute to the betterment of the environment. The good news is, you do not have to carry out major changes to your car. A good set of driving habits and proper maintenance can significantly boost the fuel-efficiency of your car. Here’s how.

Driving Habit

According to FuelEconomy.gov, aggressive driving practices, such as rapid acceleration, speeding, and hard braking, can reduce your gas mileage by 15 to 30 percent on highways and 10 to 40 percent in stop-and-go traffic. Some of the things you can do to make your driving habits more fuel-efficient and reduce harmful emissions include accelerating slowly and smoothly whenever you can, changing into a high gear as soon as possible, and using cruise control to maintain a steady speed on highways. Also, you should make a point to avoid idling. Unless you are in traffic, turn off your engine whenever you need to stop your car for over 30 seconds.

You can also reduce gas consumption by using the air-conditioning sparingly. This is especially important if your vehicle is old. Turning off all accessories that consume power before shutting off the engine and using a block heater during winter are other ways to make your car more fuel-efficient. When you need to park your vehicle, try to choose a shady place whenever possible. The best thing to do to save gas and minimize your impact on the environment is to use your car less. If you have to run several errands, try to do them in a single outing.

Vehicle Maintenance

On average, fixing an out-of-tune vehicle can increase its gas mileage by about four percent. The results can differ depending on the type and quality of repair made, but generally, proper maintenance can improve your car’s fuel-efficiency and reduce damage to the environment. Keeping your car clean can significantly lower gas consumption. According to Myth Busters, a clean car consumes less fuel than a dirty one, by about two gallons per mile. Also, it is essential that you service your car regularly. Make sure the air filters are clean, the gas cap is tightened to the second click, and the right viscosity oil is used. Choose a suitable octane fuel according to the manufacturer’s instructions. An expensive octane fuel may not be the best option for your car. Lastly, your tires should always be properly inflated, because increased rolling resistance can raise gas consumption and increase emissions. 

The tips above can make both new and old vehicles more fuel-efficient and environmentally-friendly. If you are planning to buy a new car, it is recommended that you choose an electric or hybrid car.

Sally Collins

Sally Collins is a professional freelance writer with many years experience across many different areas.