When gas prices go up, most drivers start looking for ways to save at the pump.
You might drive less, combine errands, or slow down on the highway. But there’s another factor that can affect your fuel economy that many drivers overlook:
Your vehicle’s maintenance.
A properly maintained vehicle can operate more efficiently than one that has been neglected. While routine maintenance won’t magically transform your fuel economy, keeping key systems in good working condition can help your engine run as efficiently as it was designed to.
Here are some simple maintenance items that can help you get the most from every gallon.
1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
Your tires have a direct impact on how hard your engine has to work.
When tires are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance. That means your vehicle has to work harder to move down the road, which can reduce fuel economy.
Check your tire pressure regularly and keep it at the level recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.
You’ll typically find the recommended pressure on the driver’s-side doorjamb sticker or in your owner’s manual.
Don’t rely solely on how your tires look. A tire can be significantly underinflated without appearing flat.
2. Stay Current on Oil Changes
Your engine relies on clean, properly rated motor oil to lubricate its internal components.
As oil ages, it becomes contaminated and can lose some of its effectiveness. Using the wrong oil or going too long between oil changes can also affect engine performance.
Following the manufacturer’s recommended oil-change interval helps keep your engine properly lubricated and operating as designed.
Your owner’s manual is the best place to find the recommended oil type and service interval for your vehicle.
3. Replace a Dirty Air Filter
Your engine needs the right combination of air and fuel to operate efficiently.
A dirty or restricted engine air filter can reduce the amount of air available to the engine. Depending on the vehicle and the condition of the filter, this can affect engine performance and efficiency.
Air filters don’t all need to be replaced at the same interval. Some vehicles can go much longer than others.
During routine maintenance, have your technician inspect the filter and replace it when necessary.
4. Don’t Ignore Your Check Engine Light
A check engine light doesn’t always mean something catastrophic is happening.
However, it shouldn’t be ignored.
Issues involving the engine, fuel system, oxygen sensors, ignition system, or emissions components can potentially affect how efficiently your vehicle operates.
If your check engine light comes on, getting the vehicle diagnosed can help identify the underlying problem before it becomes more expensive or affects drivability.
And if the light is flashing, don’t continue driving as though nothing is wrong. A flashing check engine light can indicate a serious problem that requires immediate attention.
5. Keep Up With Spark Plug Maintenance
Spark plugs play an important role in your engine’s combustion process.
Worn or fouled spark plugs can contribute to poor engine performance, rough running, hesitation, and reduced efficiency.
Modern spark plugs can often last for many thousands of miles, but their service life varies depending on the vehicle and plug type.
Replacing them according to the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule can help keep your engine running properly.
6. Take Care of Problems When They Start
One of the best things you can do for your vehicle’s efficiency is simple:
Don’t ignore changes in how it runs.
If your vehicle suddenly starts idling roughly, hesitating during acceleration, struggling to start, or using noticeably more fuel, something may have changed.
The sooner you identify the problem, the better your chances of addressing it before it affects other components or becomes a more expensive repair.
Maintenance Is Part of Fuel Efficiency
Fuel economy isn’t determined by one single factor.
Driving habits, vehicle type, traffic, weather, tire pressure, load, and maintenance can all play a role.
You can’t control everything, but you can control how well you maintain your vehicle.
Keeping your tires properly inflated, staying current on oil changes, replacing filters and spark plugs when needed, and addressing warning lights can help your vehicle operate the way it was designed to.
And sometimes, the easiest way to save money at the pump isn’t changing where you drive.
It’s making sure your car is ready for the miles ahead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can regular maintenance really improve fuel economy?
Proper maintenance can help your vehicle operate efficiently and prevent problems that may negatively affect fuel economy. The actual impact varies depending on the vehicle and its condition.
Does low tire pressure reduce gas mileage?
Yes. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which can make your vehicle work harder and potentially reduce fuel economy.
How often should I change my oil?
Oil-change intervals vary by vehicle, oil type, driving conditions, and manufacturer recommendations. Always follow the maintenance schedule provided for your specific vehicle.
Can a dirty air filter affect fuel economy?
A severely restricted air filter can affect engine performance and efficiency. Have your air filter inspected as part of your regular maintenance and replace it when necessary.
What should I do if my car suddenly gets worse gas mileage?
A sudden change in fuel economy can have several causes. Check your tire pressure first, then consider whether the vehicle is showing other symptoms such as warning lights, rough running, unusual noises, or changes in performance. If the change continues, have the vehicle inspected.
Get More Miles From Your Maintenance
You don’t have to wait until your vehicle has a major problem to bring it in.
Regular maintenance can help you catch developing issues, keep important systems operating properly, and help your vehicle deliver the performance and efficiency you expect.
Ready to give your vehicle a maintenance check? Schedule an appointment with Maxi’s Mechanics and keep your car running at its best.
