How to increase
the Fuel Economy of Your Vehicle
With fuel prices
increasing every month, it has become necessary to increase the fuel economy of
your vehicle. Whether you drive a hatchback, or an SUV, knowing how to improve
your fuel economy can help you save a lot of money.
In this article,
we have made a list of points you need to remember how you can improve your car
fuel economy.
1. Remove Excess Weight:
Start by removing
excess weight from your car. You can do this by removing the roof rack if you
are not using it. Don’t pack anything that you are not going to use on your
trip. Excess weight will only cost you more fuel.
2. Reduce Drag:
During the hot
summer period, the inside of your car can become hot like a sauna. So, what to
do in this situation, roll down the windows or switch on the AC. Both cases
will consume fuel. If you are driving on a highway at high speed, it is best to
turn on the AC because the drag created with open windows will cost more fuel.
On the other hand, if you in the city and driving at a low speed, it is best to
open the windows.
3. Inflate Tire to
The Correct Pressure:
Your fuel economy
will tell you how much pressure your tires can handle. If the surface area of
the tire that is in contact with the road is more, it will create more drag, it
will consume more fuel.
4. Don’t Overfill Your
Fuel Tank:
Many of us keep
the fuel tank of our car full because we hate to go to the gas station for a
top-up. As annoying it can be, it does help you get more miles out of your
money. When your fuel tank is full, you are basically carrying extra weight.
So, it is advisable to top up your tank with what you need.
5. Use The Recommended
Fuel Type:
When it comes to
getting the best mileage, you should only use the type of fuel that is recommended
for your car. Ask your manufacturer which type of fuel is best for your car.
This will significantly improve your fuel economy.
6. Go Easy on the Accelerator:
Your driving style
determines how much fuel you are consuming. If you are accelerating quickly, it
will consume more fuel, whereas gentle acceleration and highest safe gear usage
will use less fuel. Gentle acceleration is also good for the environment.
7. Take Advantage
of Cashback Credit Cards:
Many credit card
companies encourage you to use your credit cards on gas stations by giving you
points and cashback. This cashback can be redeemed to buy more fuel, which
helps you save more money. Shop around and see which bank offers the best
credit cards.
8. Avoid Prolonged
Idling:
Many of us have a
habit of leaving the car engine run on idle while we wait at a signal or
standing at a corner. When you leave your engine run on idle, it consumes
roughly half a gallon of fuel every hour. That’s a lot of wastage of fuel and
money.