Have you ever wondered if your car could be getting better gas mileage? With the ever-present threat of rising fuel prices, it’s natural to want to get the best gas mileage possible as you drive around Tea and the greater Sioux Falls area! It may seem like your gas mileage is set in stone, but there are several actions that you can take to improve it. To learn more about these valuable, money-saving tactics, read on!
Correct Tire Pressure
Tire pressure issues are simple to fix, but often get ignored by car owners. If your tires have low air pressure, there is an increase in the rolling resistance with the surface of the pavement. Consequently, your car is working harder to move forward, and you are losing more fuel.
Checking your car’s tire pressure is easy to do, especially given the fact that many cars come integrated with the ability to alert the driver when tire pressure is low. For those checking the pressure manually, there are digital tools that you can implement to give you an even more accurate reading.
Replace the Air Filter
Your car’s engine draws air in from the outside, mixing it with fuel. If there is a blockage of debris and dust, this action cannot be performed efficiently. By replacing an old air filter, you increase your car’s ability to bring in the air as needed. Having a clean air filter in your vehicle can increase the gas mileage by up to 15%. Wow!
Avoid Idling for Long Periods
Believe it or not, a stationary car uses more energy than a car in motion. With most modern cars, it is a better decision to turn off your car if you have to wait for a period. This also goes for traffic! Taking a route that adds a few more minutes but avoids sitting still in traffic will give you better gas mileage in the end.
Wheel Size Matters
The amount of weight that your car is carrying directly affects your gas mileage. While that full trunk might be the most obvious source of extra weight, your tires can impact that number as well. Both tires of a larger size and those made of heavier materials make your engine work harder to move.
If you want to snazz up your car with some fun new wheels, consider buying ones made of alloy. They are lighter, but still sturdy enough to last. Keep in mind that if you get wheels made of a lighter material, but you go up several sizes, you may not make much of a positive impact on your gas mileage.
J&M Auto Service in Tea, SD wants you to get the most out of your car. If you have questions about improving your gas mileage or want to schedule an appointment, feel free to call us at (605) 368-2050.