How to Conserve Fuel While Driving

Vehicle owners looking to save money on fuel might be wondering if there are ways to easily conserve fuel while driving. While a vehicle’s overall fuel efficiency is determined by its powertrain system, there are several strategies drivers can use to prolong their next trip to the pump. Below, we’ve highlighted several ways that drivers can increase their vehicle’s fuel efficiency. 

Driving Style 

How a driver operates their vehicle can play a significant role in determining the vehicle’s fuel consumption, especially long-term. By making several simple adjustments to your driving style, you may be able to use less fuel during your travels. 

Fortunately, the most efficient driving style is also the safest. Using a defensive and cautious driving style with gradual shifts between acceleration and braking can reduce fuel consumption. Aggressive driving and hard braking can reduce a vehicle’s fuel economy by about 30% on the highway and 40% in the city, in addition to putting the vehicle at greater risk. 

Reduce Your Cargo Weight

Traveling with larger cargo loads will require your vehicle’s engine to work harder to move the vehicle, resulting in more fuel usage. When possible, drivers should avoid driving with excess cargo, especially larger, heavier items. When vehicles are tested for fuel economy, they are tested under the assumption they are carrying about 136 kilograms worth of additional weight. When vehicles carry more than this threshold, their fuel economy will be worse than normal. 

Remove External Cargo 

Similarly, roof-mounted cargo holding accessories and attachments also have a negative impact on a vehicle’s fuel economy. These accessories can also add wind resistance, which can have a negative impact on fuel consumption at highway speeds. Because of this, vehicle experts recommend drivers only use these accessories when they’re needed, removing excess external equipment when they can. 

External Factors That Impact Fuel Economy 

Unfortunately, many external factors can also have an impact on fuel economy, some of which is outside a driver’s control. Cold weather is associated with lowered fuel efficiency, as the vehicle’s engine is forced to operate at a suboptimal temperature. Hilly and mountainous terrain also have a negative impact on fuel economy. 

Fuel System Service at Hogan Chevrolet 

Wondering if there’s an issue with your vehicle’s fuel system? Hogan Chevrolet in Scarborough, Ontario can help drivers with all their automotive needs, including service and maintenance. Book a service appointment right here on the Hogan Chevrolet website.