Why Fuel Efficiency Matters
With gas prices fluctuating, who doesn’t want to stretch each tank a bit further? But fuel efficiency is about more than savings; it’s about reducing wear on your vehicle and lowering your carbon footprint.
Here are practical, mechanic-approved ways to improve your gas mileage, brought to you by the team at Bret’s Auto Repair.
Top Ways to Boost Your MPG
Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder. Check your pressures monthly, especially before long drives.
Stay on Top of Regular Maintenance
- Oil Changes: Fresh oil reduces friction.
- Air Filters: A clogged air filter chokes your engine.
- Spark Plugs: Worn plugs lead to incomplete combustion.
- Excessive Carbon Build-Up: This is like a sinus infection for your engine—sluggish, inefficient, and tough to spot until symptoms appear. Common signs include reduced fuel economy, slow acceleration, and a sticky gas pedal.
Modern engines with Direct Injection (GDI) are especially vulnerable, as fuel doesn’t wash over the intake valves like in older Port Injection systems. That means carbon deposits can silently build up over time, affecting performance and gas mileage.
At Bret’s Auto Repair, we offer a highly effective Top-End Engine Fuel Induction Service to remove carbon buildup. In more severe cases, we may recommend walnut blasting; a deeper cleaning that restores engine performance. Ask us at your next visit if your vehicle could benefit from this service.
Lighten Up Your Load
Carrying extra weight, like unused gear in the trunk, reduces MPG. Also, remove roof racks when not in use to minimize wind drag.
Drive Smoothly
Rapid acceleration and hard braking guzzle fuel. Anticipate stops and ease into acceleration. Use cruise control on highways to maintain steady speed.
Don’t Idle Unnecessarily
Idling burns fuel needlessly. If you’re waiting more than a minute or two, it’s more efficient to turn off and restart your engine.
Plan Your Trips
Combine errands to reduce cold starts, which use more fuel. A warm engine is more efficient.
Ready to Get the Most Out of Your Vehicle?
Improving fuel economy isn’t just about driving less, it’s about driving smarter and maintaining your car properly. If you’d like a fuel efficiency inspection or tune-up, contact Bret’s Auto Repair in Lynnwood today. We’ll help you keep more money in your wallet and your car on the road longer.
Need more tailored advice?
Stop by our shop or give us a call. We love helping our neighbors in North King & Snohomish counties save on fuel and avoid unnecessary repairs.