Why Is My Car Using So Much Gas?

Why Is My Car Using So Much Gas?

         

                                       

Several factors can affect fuel usage. You can monitor some of these factors yourself but others may require a mechanic. Keep in mind that larger, heavier vehicles use more fuel than smaller, lighter ones.

Driving Style

Cars get the best gas mileage at about 2,100 RPMs. For highway driving this is at about 96 kilometers per hour for most cars. Frequent acceleration and braking, as in traffic and city driving, and driving too fast can reduce your gas mileage.

Tire Pressure

Under-inflated or over-inflated tires can negatively affect gas mileage and pose safety issues. Check the sidewall of the tires to see what the ideal tire pressure is and use a tire pressure gauge to see how your tire pressure compares.

Air Filters

A dirty air filter can reduce your gas mileage. Checking it, or having it checked every time you have the oil changed, and changing it when necessary can help increase your fuel efficiency.

Air Conditioning Use

Running the air conditioner reduces fuel efficiency. Try allowing the vehicle to be a little warmer in the summer, or rolling down the windows when you are traveling at slow speeds.

Overloading

Putting too much in your trunk or carry more passengers have adverse effect on your fuel consumption. Remove any unnecessary weight from the car and travel light if you can.

Other Factors

Faulty spark plugs, dragging brakes, kinked vacuum lines and faulty fuel injectors can also cause your car to use more fuel than you think it should. Take your car to a reputable mechanic; he should be able to identify the problem and get it resolved.