With petrol prices fluctuating and environmental concerns growing, improving your car’s fuel efficiency is more important than ever. Not only does better fuel economy save you money, but it also reduces your carbon footprint and enhances the lifespan of your vehicle. Whether you drive a compact car or an SUV, there are several ways to maximize every drop of fuel. Below are some practical tips to help you increase your car’s fuel efficiency.

1. Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure

One of the simplest yet most effective ways to improve fuel efficiency is by maintaining the correct tyre pressure. Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder, burning more fuel. Check your tyre pressure regularly and ensure it’s at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Most cars have a sticker on the driver’s side door frame with this information.

2. Lighten Your Load

Carrying excess weight can drag your car down, literally. For every 100 pounds of extra weight, fuel efficiency can decrease by about 1%. Clean out your trunk and remove any unnecessary items. If you have a roof rack or box that’s not being used, consider removing it, as it increases wind resistance.

3. Drive Smoothly

Aggressive driving, including rapid acceleration, speeding, and hard braking, wastes a significant amount of fuel. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, this kind of driving can lower your gas mileage by up to 30% on the highway and 40% in stop-and-go traffic. By anticipating stops, accelerating gradually, and maintaining a steady speed, you can greatly improve your car’s fuel economy.

4. Use Cruise Control

On long highway trips, using cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and prevent unnecessary acceleration and braking. This can lead to more efficient fuel usage, especially on flat terrain. However, avoid using cruise control on hilly roads, where your engine may work harder to maintain speed.

5. Limit Idling

Idling consumes more fuel than restarting your engine, so avoid letting your car idle for long periods. If you’re waiting in line or at a stop for more than 30 seconds, consider turning off the engine. Modern cars don’t need to be “warmed up” like older models, so idling to heat the car isn’t necessary.

6. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance

Regular car maintenance is crucial for fuel efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle operates more efficiently and uses less fuel. Here’s a quick checklist:

• Change your oil as recommended by the manufacturer to ensure your engine runs smoothly.
• Replace air filters when dirty; a clogged air filter can reduce your car’s fuel efficiency by restricting airflow.
• Check spark plugs regularly. Worn or faulty spark plugs can cause engine misfires, which lower fuel economy.

7. Reduce Air Conditioning Usage

Using the air conditioner places an extra load on your engine, increasing fuel consumption. On warm days, try to use the air conditioner sparingly or use the car’s ventilation system instead. On the highway, keep windows up to reduce drag, but around town, it’s often more fuel-efficient to open the windows and turn off the A/C.

8. Plan Efficient Routes

Planning your routes to avoid heavy traffic and unnecessary detours can help you save both time and fuel. Apps like Google Maps and Waze provide real-time traffic updates and suggest alternative routes that are faster and more fuel-efficient. Combining errands into one trip instead of making multiple trips can also save fuel.

9. Use the Right Fuel

While premium fuel may sound better, most cars are designed to run on regular gasoline. Unless your vehicle’s manufacturer specifically recommends premium fuel, using it won’t improve your car’s performance or fuel economy. Stick to the recommended grade to avoid unnecessary costs.

10. Drive at Optimal Speeds

Every vehicle has an optimal speed range for fuel efficiency, generally between 45 and 65 mph. Driving faster than this can cause your fuel economy to decrease significantly. As a general rule, for every 5 mph you drive over 50 mph, it’s like paying an extra $0.20 per gallon of gas. Try to stay within your car’s most efficient speed range, especially on highways.

11. Use Eco Mode

Many modern vehicles are equipped with an “Eco Mode” that adjusts engine and transmission performance to improve fuel economy. While you may sacrifice a bit of acceleration, the savings at the pump can be well worth it. If your car has this feature, be sure to use it during city driving or in stop-and-go traffic.

12. Keep Windows Closed at High Speeds

Driving with your windows open at high speeds increases aerodynamic drag, making your engine work harder to maintain speed. It’s best to keep windows closed when driving on highways to reduce drag and improve fuel efficiency. If you need ventilation, use the car’s internal ventilation system.

Conclusion

Increasing your car’s fuel efficiency doesn’t require expensive upgrades or drastic changes. By adopting these simple habits—maintaining your car, driving smoothly, and reducing unnecessary weight—you can save money, reduce your environmental impact, and keep your vehicle running efficiently for years to come. Try implementing a few of these tips, and watch as your fuel costs drop and your car’s performance improves!