Saving Money by Saving Fuel and Increasing Performance
Somewhere between world politics and crystal balls the price of fuel has managed to spike upward again. We all know that wishing won´t bring the price back down but there are some simple steps and considerations that can help maximize the mileage from each gallon of fuel you buy.
Check the following list and ask yourself if any of them pertain to you, your particular vehicle, and your driving habits.
Actual fuel mileage is best determined by calculating the fuel consumed and mileage driven over three tanks of fuel or more.
Fill your tank fully each time, get your fuel at the same station each time (if possible) and use your normal driving habits.
Cold weather and the use of oxygenated fuel will increase your vehicleÕs fuel consumption on a seasonal basis.
Taking short trips of three miles or less will decrease your fuel mileage.
Prolonged engine warm up periods and excessive engine idling will increase fuel use.
Stop & go city driving will decrease fuel mileage appx. 17% below freeway driving.
Freeway driving over the posted speed limit will decrease average fuel consumption by appx. 2.4 MPG for every 10 MPH increased above 40 MPH.
Loading down your vehicle with extra passengers or weight will decrease fuel mileage, especially if you are driving on hilly terrain.
Increasing the frontal area of your vehicle with even a light load will increase wind resistance, which will decrease fuel mileage accordingly.
Installing bug deflectors and other add-on items increases wind resistance and decreases fuel mileage by approximately 1 to 2 MPG. Faster speeds have a greater effect on mileage when these components are installed.
Driving your vehicle with the Check Engine Light in the instrument panel illuminated will cause poor fuel mileage and driveability issues.
Driving with your left foot resting on the brake pedal even lightly will cause decreased fuel mileage and premature brake lining wear.
Under-inflated tires will increase rolling resistance and cause a loss of up to one mile per gallon. Tires should always be inflated to manufacturerÕs specifications.
Many of the facts in this article were compiled from a Fuel Economy Service Tips article from your friends at the Ford Motor Co.
Remember, with the high price of fuel even a small change for the positive in your driving habits could make a significant difference in your fuel bill each month. We welcome your feedback on these features. You can e-mail us at tech@astauto.com or contact us any of the old fashioned ways.
We welcome your feedback on these features.