Over the years, customers often inquire about how to increase their vehicle’s miles per gallon, and I have always offered the following advice.
Check tire pressure
According to government assessments, properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage up to 3.3%, while under-inflated tires not only cost money in fuel, they also cause accelerated tire wear, resulting in unplanned costs. Tires should be checked once a month for wear and pressure. A digital-read air-check gauge is available at most auto parts stores.
Tighten that gas cap
Gas evaporates from the gas tank if the cap is loose, so always tighten until you hear at least three distinctive “clicks” from the cap. The Car Care Council estimates that 147 million gallons of gas is wasted annually through loose or missing gas caps. And, a loose gas cap can trigger a “check engine” warning light, which may require a $100 (or more) diagnosis to determine the cap was left loose.
Never top off your gas tank
Continuing to fuel after the nozzle shuts off will allow gas to flow out, and evaporative sensors may again trigger a “check engine” light.
Always use the correct oil
The vehicle’s manufacturer determined a specific oil be used in that particular model. By using an inferior grade, or using regular instead of synthetic,oil, you run the risk of premature engine failure. The lubricating and cooling properties of a specific oil have been designed to help get the most life out of the vehicle.
Watch for alignment wear
When tires roll smoothly, the engine has to push less for the best gas mileage. When tires are out of alignment, the engine pushes harder to keep up the momentum, and guess what… this uses more fuel. When checking the air in the tires every month, look for uneven tire wear, as this is an indication of alignment wear. Drive in to your local repair shop if you are unsure.
Maintenance, maintenance, maintenance
When the manufacturer-recommended maintenance is not performed, spark plugs don’t spark properly, filters don’t filter and lubricants don’t lube. Your owner’s manual lists specifics for all maintenance items, and although there is a cost in correctly servicing your vehicle, not servicing may result in damaged components and more costs than you might have expected.
Have a story about a great, or not so great, auto-service experience? Please send it to mark.fttu@yahoo.com for possible publication in an upcoming From The Tires Up article.
