As I’m writing this, the price of regular unleaded is hovering right around $4.50/gallon here in Lino Lakes, hopefully by the time you’re reading this prices have come down a bit but at this point who knows what the future will hold. Here at the shop, we’ve had a lot more customers lately asking what they can do to help get the best gas mileage possible and so with summer vacations and roadtrips on the horizon we thought it would be a good idea to talk through a few maintenance tips that can help you get the most out of that expensive tank of gas!
The good news is that improving fuel efficiency doesn’t necessarily mean you need to buy a new vehicle or make expensive aftermarket upgrades. Regular maintenance and a few smart habits can help your car run more efficiently and save money at the pump, not to mention extending the overall life of your vehicle (which is the biggest hidden expense most people don’t think about).
Below is a list of the most effective maintenance items and tips that we recommend to our Lenfer Automotive customers::
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
This tip never gets old but one of the easiest ways to improve fuel efficiency is maintaining proper tire pressure. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burn more fuel.
Check your tire pressure at least once a month and before long trips as well as with any major shifts in the seasonal temperature. Use the pressure recommendations found on the driver’s side door sticker or in your owner’s manual rather than relying on the number printed on the tire itself.
Benefits of proper tire inflation include:
- Better gas mileage
- Improved tire lifespan
- Safer handling and braking
- More even tire wear
Stay Current on Oil Changes
Regular oil changes are essential for keeping your engine running smoothly. Dirty or old oil creates additional friction inside the engine, reducing efficiency and increasing fuel consumption.
Using the manufacturer-recommended oil grade is also important. Modern engines are designed to operate with very specific oil viscosities that maximize performance and fuel economy.
If you are unsure about the right oil for your vehicle, just give us a call and we can recommend the right oil for your vehicle as well as the time of year here in Minnesota.
Replace Dirty Air Filters
Your engine needs a proper balance of air and fuel for efficient combustion. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow and can reduce engine efficiency.
Replacing the engine air filter according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule helps ensure optimal airflow and can contribute to improved fuel economy, especially in older vehicles.
Signs your air filter may need replacement include:
- Reduced acceleration
- Poor fuel economy
- Dirty or dusty filter appearance
- Unusual engine sounds
Keep Up With Tune-Ups
Spark plugs, ignition components, and fuel system parts all play a role in fuel efficiency. Worn spark plugs can cause incomplete combustion, engine misfires, and wasted fuel.
Routine tune-ups help your engine operate at peak performance and can improve both gas mileage and overall reliability.
Don’t Ignore the Check Engine Light
Many drivers continue driving with the check engine light on, but doing so can hurt fuel efficiency. Problems like faulty oxygen sensors, bad mass airflow sensors, or emissions issues can significantly reduce gas mileage.
Having diagnostic issues addressed early can prevent bigger repairs later and help restore fuel economy.
Keep Wheels Properly Aligned
Poor wheel alignment creates drag and uneven tire wear, both of which reduce fuel efficiency. If your vehicle pulls to one side or your steering wheel feels off-center, it may be time for an alignment check.
Reduce Excess Weight
Carrying unnecessary items in your trunk or truck bed adds weight and forces your engine to work harder. Removing heavy tools, sports equipment, or unused cargo can help improve efficiency.
Roof racks and cargo carriers can also create aerodynamic drag, especially at highway speeds. Removing them when not in use can improve gas mileage.
Drive Smoothly
Maintenance matters, but driving habits also affect fuel economy. Aggressive acceleration, speeding, and hard braking can dramatically reduce mileage.
Follow Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule
Your manufacturer’s recommended maintenance schedule is designed to keep your vehicle running efficiently and reliably. Routine inspections and preventative maintenance help catch small problems before they affect performance or fuel economy and regular service visits can help ensure your vehicle gets the best possible mileage year-round.
Final Thoughts
Improving gas mileage doesn’t have to be complicated, simple maintenance tasks like checking tire pressure, changing oil regularly, replacing filters, and staying current on tune-ups can make a noticeable difference in fuel efficiency.
If your vehicle has experienced a drop in gas mileage or if you want to make sure that your vehicle is ready for all of your summer driving adventures and road trips, just give us a call at (651) 784-6328 with questions or to schedule an appointment and let Lenfer Automotive help you get the most out of the dollars you’ll be spending at the pump this summer!
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