Your car’s fuel economy is an important metric to consider when you’re in the market for a new vehicle or are maintaining your current one. Fuel economy refers to how far your car can travel on one gallon of gas, and it’s typically displayed as miles per gallon (mpg). Most cars’ fuel economy will be relatively stable. Still, this number varies depending on the model of the car you drive and how you treat it over time. If your vehicle isn’t getting the fuel economy you expect, keep reading to find out why that might be and how you can improve your gas mileage!
Dirty Air Filter
A dirty air filter is one of the most common reasons your car might be getting poor fuel economy. When your air filter is clogged, your vehicle must work harder to draw in air, which can use more fuel. Therefore, you should check your air filter every few months and replace it if it’s dirty. If you’re unsure how to do this, consult your car’s owner’s manual or take it to a professional.
Underinflated Tires
If your car is having trouble getting good fuel economy, one thing you can check is your tire pressure. Tires slightly underinflated can cause increased rolling resistance, which means your car has to work harder to move down the road. That extra work means your engine has to use more fuel to keep going. So if you’re noticing that you’re filling up your gas tank more often than usual, have your mechanic check it the next time you go in for service.
Dirty Fuel Injectors
If your car is having trouble starting or is idling roughly, it could be a sign that your fuel injectors are dirty or damaged. This can lead to poor fuel economy because your engine isn’t getting the proper amount of fuel. You can have a mechanic clean or inspect your injectors.
Worn Spark Plugs
One of the most common reasons for poor fuel economy is worn spark plugs. When your spark plugs are worn, they fire less efficiently, which means your engine isn’t running as smoothly as it could be. This can lead to a loss in power and fuel economy. Consult your owner’s manual or your trusted mechanic to determine when to have your car’s spark plugs changed to maintain the best fuel economy possible.
Poor Driving Habits
One of the main reasons your car might be getting poor fuel economy is your driving habits. For example, if you’re constantly flooring it and braking hard, you will use up more gas than someone who drives more smoothly. Other things that can impact your fuel economy are how often you use your air conditioning and whether or not you keep up with regular maintenance.
Poor fuel economy is not only a waste of money but also a sign of other issues with your car. See your auto care professional get your car’s MPGs back to what it is supposed to be.