Cars are capable of getting better gas mileage today than ever before, even if you don’t have a hybrid vehicle. Many car owners will want to get that high gas mileage, so they aren’t at the pumps filling up all the time. Philadelphia, PA auto repair can help prevent high gas mileage from occurring in a vehicle that used to get decent gas mileage. Here are a few common reasons that you might see a decrease in the gas mileage you’re getting in your vehicle:
Reason 1: A Change In Your Oil Type
While oil changes are good for your vehicle, you could see a decrease in your fuel economy if you choose the wrong type of oil for your engine. If you use traditional oil and you don’t like the dip in mileage you receive, swap it out for synthetic or a synthetic blend. This will decrease friction and increase the performance you get form your vehicle.
Reason 2: Your Driving Habits
It’s easy enough to get lax about the way you drive, but keep in mind that your driving habits are important to your safety as well as the efficiency of your vehicle. If you drive in an aggressive manner, accelerating fast and revving your engine, you will waste fuel. Idling your car is wasteful as well. Engines usually warm up in 30 seconds so you don’t have to run the vehicle for several minutes on a cold winter morning. Change these habits and you’ll get your vehicle back on track for mileage.
Reason 3: Bad Spark Plugs
If your spark plugs aren’t firing or functioning well, it will affect your mileage. Have them checked on a regular basis and if you notice your mileage decreasing, get in for auto repair right away before more things go wrong.
Reason 4: Using The AC
If it’s decent outside, roll the windows down instead of running the air conditioning in your vehicle. The AC wastes fuel in powering the system. If you’re driving around a neighborhood and in town, roll the windows down and enjoy fresh air. When you hit the interstate, however, roll the windows up or you’ll create drag, which will lower your mileage.
Reason 5: Bad Air Filters
If you have dirty air filters, you can see a huge decrease in your MPG. The air filters give you a proper balance of air and fuel into the engine, which will help maintain efficiency. When they are dirty, the engine doesn’t perform well. Take your vehicle in for checkups and listen when the technician tells you that your air filters are lacking.
If you need advice on the MPG your car is showcasing, contact Schafer’s Auto Center about Philadelphia, PA auto repair by calling (215) 755-1270. We can give your vehicle a full checkup and see what’s going on. Tune-ups are important to the longevity of your vehicle and the technicians at SAR want your car to be as efficient as possible as well. Visit us at 1924 S Columbus Blvd Philadelphia, PA 19148.
