Do you feel like your gas tank empties faster than it should? With rising fuel costs, getting the most out of every gallon is more important than ever.
The good news is that you can improve your car’s mileage by taking proper care of it.
Simple maintenance tweaks, like checking your tire pressure or replacing a clogged air filter, can make a huge difference in your fuel efficiency.
These aren’t complicated fixes—they’re quick, practical steps that can save you money and even make your car run smoother.
In this article, we’re breaking down 10 game-changing car maintenance tips to help you increase your fuel efficiency and keep your car performing at its best.
Below are also reasons why every point in our list is important to achieving your goals and also the right steps to take.
Curious how much you could save? Let’s get started.
1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to increase your fuel efficiency is by maintaining the correct tire pressure.
Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder, leading to wasted fuel.
To keep your vehicle running efficiently, it’s important to maintain the recommended tire pressure.
For most cars, the ideal tire pressure typically ranges between 30 to 35 PSI (pounds per square inch), but it’s always best to check your owner’s manual or the sticker on the inside of your driver’s side door for the exact number.
- Why It Matters: Studies show that driving with under-inflated tires can decrease your gas mileage by up to 3%.
- What to Do:
- Check your tire pressure at least once a month or before long trips using a digital gauge.
- Refer to your car’s manual or the sticker inside the driver’s door for the recommended PSI.
- Inflate your tires to the proper level at home or at a gas station.
Pro Tip: Tires naturally lose pressure over time and even faster in cold weather, so staying consistent with checks is key.
2. Replace Clogged Air Filters
Your engine needs clean air to burn fuel efficiently.
A dirty or clogged air filter restricts airflow, causing your engine to work harder and consume more gas.
- Why It Matters: Replacing a clogged air filter can improve your mileage by up to 10%, depending on the car’s age and condition.
- What to Do:
- Inspect your air filter every 12,000 to 15,000 miles or as recommended in your vehicle’s manual.
- Hold the filter up to the light—if you can’t see through it, it’s time for a replacement.
- DIY it with an affordable replacement filter or have it done during your next service appointment.
3. Use the Right Motor Oil
Not all motor oils are created equal, and using the wrong type can hurt your car’s fuel economy.
Your car’s manufacturer specifies the best oil grade to optimize engine performance and efficiency.
- Why It Matters: Using the recommended grade of motor oil can improve fuel efficiency by 1% to 2%.
- What to Do:
- Check your car’s manual for the recommended oil grade.
- Look for “Energy Conserving” on the label—it indicates the oil is formulated to reduce friction.
- Stick to the service schedule for oil changes to keep your engine running smoothly.
4. Keep Your Wheels Aligned
Misaligned wheels cause uneven tire wear and force your engine to work harder to keep your car moving straight.
This not only reduces fuel efficiency but also puts extra strain on your tires.
- Why It Matters: Poor alignment can reduce your gas mileage by as much as 10%.
- What to Do:
- Get a wheel alignment check annually or whenever you notice your car pulling to one side.
- Have your alignment adjusted after hitting a pothole or curb—it’s a common culprit for misalignment.
Pro Tip: A proper alignment doesn’t just save fuel—it also extends the life of your tires.
5. Check Your Fuel System Regularly
Your car’s fuel system, including fuel filters and injectors, plays a critical role in how efficiently it burns gasoline.
Dirty or clogged fuel components reduce performance and waste fuel.
- Why It Matters: A clean fuel system ensures that gasoline flows properly to your engine, maximizing efficiency.
- What to Do:
- Replace your fuel filter as recommended by your car’s manual, usually every 30,000 miles.
- Use a fuel system cleaner periodically to remove deposits and keep injectors clean.
- Choose high-quality gas from reputable stations to reduce the risk of contaminants.
6. Don’t Ignore Your Spark Plugs
Spark plugs may be small, but they play a big role in your car’s fuel efficiency.
Worn or faulty spark plugs can cause misfires, leading to incomplete combustion and wasted fuel.
- Why It Matters: Faulty spark plugs can reduce your fuel efficiency by up to 30%.
- What to Do:
- Check your spark plugs every 30,000 to 50,000 miles, or as recommended by your manufacturer.
- Replace spark plugs if they’re worn, dirty, or corroded.
- Opt for high-performance or long-lasting spark plugs for optimal fuel economy.
Pro Tip: If your engine feels sluggish or your gas mileage has dropped, spark plugs are often the culprit.
7. Lighten Your Load
Excess weight in your car reduces fuel efficiency because it makes your engine work harder to move the vehicle.
Think of your car as a marathon runner—every extra pound slows it down.
- Why It Matters: Every 100 pounds of extra weight can reduce your fuel economy by about 1%.
- What to Do:
- Clear out unnecessary items from your trunk and backseat.
- Remove roof racks, bike carriers, or cargo boxes when not in use—they create drag and hurt aerodynamics.
Pro Tip: Prioritize keeping just the essentials, like an emergency kit and basic tools, in your car.
8. Replace Your Oxygen Sensor When Needed
The oxygen sensor monitors the air-to-fuel ratio in your engine and helps optimize combustion.
A faulty sensor can cause your car to burn more fuel than necessary.
- Why It Matters: Replacing a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can improve your fuel efficiency by as much as 40%.
- What to Do:
- If your “check engine” light comes on, have the oxygen sensor tested.
- Replace the sensor every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on your car’s specifications.
Pro Tip: Regular diagnostic checks can catch oxygen sensor issues before they hurt your fuel efficiency.
9. Keep Your Engine Tuned
A well-tuned engine operates efficiently, ensuring that fuel burns cleanly and effectively.
Neglecting engine maintenance can lead to inefficiencies and higher fuel consumption.
- Why It Matters: A poorly tuned engine can lower gas mileage by as much as 4% to 6%.
- What to Do:
- Schedule routine engine tune-ups according to your car’s maintenance schedule.
- Replace faulty or aging components like ignition coils or fuel injectors.
- Have your engine inspected if you notice strange noises, rough idling, or a drop in mileage.
Pro Tip: Modern cars often display error codes for engine issues—address these promptly to save on fuel costs.
10. Use Cruise Control on Highways
While not a maintenance tip per se, using cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, reducing fuel-wasting acceleration and deceleration.
- Why It Matters: Maintaining a consistent speed can improve your highway fuel efficiency by up to 7%.
- What to Do:
- Engage cruise control on flat highways where you can maintain a steady speed.
- Avoid using it on hilly roads where constant adjustments are required.
Pro Tip: Cruise control is especially helpful for long trips, not only saving fuel but also reducing driver fatigue.
Conclusion
Improving your car’s fuel efficiency is simpler than you think. These 10 maintenance tips will save you money, reduce emissions, and make your car more efficient with every mile.
Start with small changes—check your tire pressure or replace that old air filter—and feel the difference immediately.
These habits will pay off big over time, cutting your fuel costs and boosting your car’s performance.
Take control of your fuel economy today.
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