- Remove unnecessary weight; 45 kg extra increases fuel use by about 2%.
- Maintain tire pressure and regular maintenance (air filter, spark plugs, oil, injectors).
- Refuel in cooler temperatures (morning/evening) for more fuel per tank.
- Speed and driving style matter: gradual acceleration and anticipation save fuel.
Fuel consumption is one of the biggest expenses for car owners. In a period when pump prices fluctuate constantly, finding effective methods for fuel economy becomes essential for the family budget. The good news is that with a few simple adjustments in driving behavior and vehicle maintenance, you can significantly reduce your car’s fuel consumption.
Every vehicle has the potential to optimize consumption, regardless of age or engine type. The difference can reach 20-25% between an aggressive driving style and an economical one, translating into substantial long-term savings.
Removing Unnecessary Weight From the Vehicle
The first step to reducing consumption is to shed unnecessary weight from the car. Do not use the vehicle as a second or third storage closet. For every additional 45 kg, fuel consumption increases by about 2%.
Check the trunk, cabin, and storage compartments. Remove sporting equipment, unused tool boxes, or other items that accumulate over time. This is one of the simplest and most immediate saving measures.
Maintaining Optimal Tire Pressure
Correctly inflated tires are a crucial factor for fuel consumption. Underinflated tires by as little as 0.3 bar can increase consumption by up to 3-5%. You will find a sticker with the correct pressures on the car’s B-pillar (between the front and rear doors), and if you can’t find it, check the owner’s manual.
Check the pressure at least once a month, preferably when the tires are cold. The pressure should be adjusted according to the vehicle load and road conditions.
Keeping to the Maintenance Schedule
Keeping to the maintenance schedule is essential for maintaining optimal fuel consumption. A car in perfect working order will always consume less than one that is neglected.
Elements influencing consumption include:
- Air filter - a clogged filter can increase consumption by up to 10%
- Spark plugs - worn spark plugs cause incomplete combustion
- Engine oil - poor-quality or old oil increases internal friction
- Injectors - should be cleaned periodically for optimal spray
Choosing the Right Time to Refuel
Although it sounds unusual, buying fuel when the outside temperature is lower can yield small but steady savings. Fuel is denser when it is cold outside, which means you will get a little more quantity for the same money.
The best time to refuel is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the temperature is lower and the fuel in the station’s tanks hasn’t warmed yet.
Speed Management for Maximum Efficiency
Speed affects fuel consumption dramatically. The difference between driving at 80 km/h and 120 km/h can be 20-25% in favor of the lower speed.
This is due to aerodynamic drag, which increases exponentially with speed. At speeds above 90 km/h, every additional 15 km/h can increase consumption by 10-15%.
Economical Driving Techniques
- Gradual acceleration - avoid abrupt accelerations that push the engine
- Traffic anticipation - maintain a safe following distance to avoid frequent braking
- Cruise control - on highways, maintain a constant speed
- Shutting off the engine - during longer stops of more than 30 seconds
Additional Factors Influencing Consumption
Weather Conditions
Strong winds, rain, and snow can significantly increase consumption. Adapt your driving style accordingly.
Routes Chosen
Avoid heavy traffic as much as possible and choose routes with fewer traffic lights and stops.
Vehicle Load
Plan trips to carry more goods at once, instead of making multiple separate trips.
There is a very strong link between your car’s fuel consumption and your driving style. By applying these simple methods, you can achieve substantial fuel savings, while also reducing emissions and prolonging the vehicle’s life. Every driver should develop their own economical driving style, tailored to the car type and local traffic conditions.
