Fuel prices have reached all-time highs. These are some ways you can reduce the pain at the pump.
AAA reports that the average daily price of a gallon gasoline in the United States was $4.31 on March 10. The average diesel price is $5.05 per gallon. These figures are high, and prices for diesel are even higher for friends across the pond – significantly higher in certain cases. Although we cannot help with fuel costs, we may be able to help you get a little more on a tank.
We’re sure you’ve heard many fuel-saving tips. However, we don’t want to give away any information without providing context. Motor1.com reached to Mia Bevacqua. She is a veteran ASE-certified Master Automobile Technician and Chief Mechanic at CarParts.com. She is a skilled mechanic and shared simple tips that could help you get the job done at the pump.
Although this tip is the most common, it’s often overlooked. This tip is also what Bevacqua emphasizes more than any other. She advises that you don’t ignore the check engine lights. Modern engines are controlled by sophisticated computer systems. A fault with a sensor can cause serious economic damage. Basic things like clogged fuel filters or air filters can cause problems at the pump. Don’t forget other aspects of your car. Badly aligned steering and brakes can increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption.
Although this could be a problem with vehicle maintenance, it is worth mentioning separately because it is a simple fix that is often overlooked. Bevacqua explained that tires underinflated by one psi can cause a drop in fuel mileage of 0.4%. Tires that fall below that level can cause a rapid loss. While recommended pressures will vary from vehicle to vehicle, it is important to follow the automaker’s recommendations and not the maximum pressures printed on your tires.
Performance connoisseurs love to get rid of all the passengers seats before making a quarter-mile lap at the drag strip. But Bevacqua reminds us that lighter weight means less fuel. Get rid of stuff you keep in your car. Donate it or take it to a place. You’ll burn more fuel if you have more fuel.
For those living in warmer climates, this could be a difficult decision. However, drastic measures are necessary when things get very serious. Bevacqua stated that the air conditioner compressor is a parasitic load, which can reduce fuel economy. This is a double-whammy because lower windows can also reduce mileage due to aerodynamics. Sunshades can be used to cool the car during the day. Most climate control systems also have basic vents that draw in air from outside without the need for an air conditioner. Although it won’t get cold, there will still be breeze.
You could always go electric:
Automakers love to talk about drag coefficients in their new electric models, which is an aspect of aerodynamics. Aerodynamics that are more aerodynamic means less fuel consumption and less power to move through the air. Bevacqua recommends that roof rails on SUVs and vehicles with roofs be removed when not in use, especially if they are carrying bulky cargo boxes.
Although this is common sense, it’s worth repeating. This is the perfect time to resist road rage if you needed it. Bevacqua stated that “nice and smooth” is the best way to go. Gentle inputs to the throttle are key. For every 5 mph that you travel under 50 mph your mileage will increase. It’s impossible to travel 50 mph on the highway, but it is possible to stay at the speed limit or slightly below.
This is not a driving tip, but a life hack. However, there’s a good reason why delivery companies spend so much on logistics. You can save a mile by planning a Saturday route that takes you to your destination. It’s a good idea to avoid rush hour and, if COVID rules permit, you shouldn’t be able to wait in the drive-thru queue with the engine running. Bevacqua reminds us to park and go inside to save fuel.
It’s fine to skip the drive-thru in exchange for a quick five-minute meal, but Bevacqua does not recommend that you shut down your car while waiting at traffic lights or other traffic conditions. This is fine for cars with start/stop technology, but the potential fuel savings are offset by the wear and tear of systems that were not intended for it.
High-octane premium fuel grades are most expensive, with fuel prices at an all-time high. Although it might seem tempting to choose a lower-grade fuel, Bevacqua recommends that you always use the recommended grade. Although you won’t get better mileage per gallon by going higher in octane, it might be more costly as the engine computer adjusts ignition timing to match fuel. This could lead to lower fuel economy.
This one is for manual transmission enthusiasts. If you are a rower, this is likely to be a problem. Do not lug your engine in high gear at very low RPM. Bevacqua warns that running the engine at a low RPM in high gear can cause more damage than good. This is true whether you’re driving an old Ford Mustang or the latest Toyota Priushybrid.