Improve Your Car’s 

Fuel Efficiency

It’s really exasperating to see fuel prices skyrocketing, right? We can only feel helpless in the
face of recurring and economy-driven price fluctuations. Seeking measures to improve fuel
economy is the only way to combat rising fuel prices. Do not disregard these simple guidelines;
each little step can really start adding up to significant savings to your budget.

Check Tyre Pressure

Keeping the tyres well inflated is one of the simplest things you can do to help improve your
car’s fuel efficiency. You can improve the mileage by about 3.3 percent if you keep your tyres

inflated properly, according to the DOE.

Lighten Your Load

Empty out your boot of unnecessary items. For every extra 45 kg you carry, your fuel efficiency
can drop by 1-2% in a typical vehicle.

S-L-O-W D-O-W-N
The faster you drive, the more fuel you use. Driving within the speed limit recommended by the
manufacturer helps save fuel. Driving just 5mph over the speed limit can affect fuel economy by
up to 23%. Likewise, quick acceleration consumes too much fuel; accelerate slowly and
gradually.

Do Fuel Quality/Types/Additives Help Mileage?

Petrol pump attendants often try to convince you to go for ‘Speed petrol’ or ‘X-tra Mile diesel’.
But this need not necessarily help improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Always use the grade
recommended for the vehicle by the manufacturer. Higher octane fuel may not only be a waste of
money but may harm the vehicle, as well. However sticking to one brand of fuel is always good
for the engine. Know more about Octane Ratings

Tune Your Engine

A well-tuned engine can improve fuel economy by up to 4%. So change your oil and follow your
car manufacturer’s recommendation on servicing.

Clean the Air Filters Regularly

Air filters keep impurities from damaging your engine. Replacing a clogged air filter can
improve fuel economy by as much as 10%.

Keep the Windows Closed

Driving with your windows open considerably reduces mileage, far more than keeping the AC
on while driving along highways. So preferably keep the windows closed and the AC on if you
want to keep cool. Of course the air-conditioning decreases fuel efficiency considerably, so use it
judiciously. Windows down or A/C on — which is more fuel-efficient?

Clean Spark Plugs

Ensure your spark plugs are in good condition. Renew the plugs and wires at intervals specified
by the manufacturer. This will keep all cylinders firing properly resulting in higher efficiency.

Don’t Be a Clutch-Driver

Never keep your foot on the clutch while driving. When you do this, pressure is being placed on
your clutch, and it not only reduces mileage, but also wears out the clutch plate, replacing which
is not cheap.

Keep the Car in Showroom Condition

It’s always prudent to keep the car in the showroom condition. Remember that any modification
to the car, such as broad tyres, diffusers etc., will adversely affect the mileage.