Car Maintenance Tips for Better fuel efficiency

             Save Fuel - Save Earth 




As global oil prices continue to rise meteorically to record levels, we have to find ways to improve our cars' fuel economy and save money. Especially now that drivers are doing a lot more traveling than ever, the importance of fuel economy cannot be over emphasized. We have to find ways to save money on gas and improve fuel efficiency, especially if our vehicles are not really known for their excellent gas mileage.

The usage of automobiles have increased in the recent years and much can be owed to fast paced economy of the world . There is a tendency among the individuals to acquire the latest model of cars of various brands that come with superb features and elegant style. People after getting a car often care little about regular car maintenance. Although we may be doing regular servicing of our dream machine , but a good Automobile maintenance can not only keep the machine good but also help to save a little fuel too .

Some Useful Tips for Improving our Automobile Fuel Economy

• Proper oil maintenance and viscosity will help our car to operate at maximum efficiency. Heavy oil will cause the engine to work harder. Use the lightest grade oil for our climate and season .
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        Consumers should change the oil and air filter at recommended intervals to minimize engine wear and reduce the possibility of internal damage. Oil lubricates the moving parts of the engine, preventing metal-to-metal contact, minimizing friction and carrying away excess heat. All of this promotes better fuel efficiency and reduced emissions. Severe problems could result if the engine’s oil isn’t changed. The lowest multi grade of oil should be used, because it improves fuel efficiency of the engine. The best oil for fuel economy is the oil with the “ Energy Conserving ” label.

•  Fire up the spark plugs. A tune-up is a misnomer in this day in age. Computer-driven coil packs replaced the points, condenser and distributor in most vehicles a long time ago. The spark plugs must fire properly for the engine to run smoothly. Replace the spark plugs on time, according to  owner's manual.

•  Tire Maintenance -  Our vehicle's tires is crucial to fuel economy .  Every other fill-up, walk around the vehicle and check tires for uneven or excessive tread wear as well as proper inflation . 
  

  
  

  • Rolling resistance could result if our vehicle’s tires are not at the correct pressure. Rolling resistance results in premature tread wear when our tires are under inflated, which increases fuel consumption. Check tire pressure once a month, and check tires for uneven wear, because this could be a sign of over inflation, under inflation, or improper wheel alignment. Misaligned tires will drag instead of rolling freely. This will increase fuel consumption; reduce tire life and cause problems with the vehicle’s handling. 

• Engine Tuning - A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently. Vehicles manufactured after 1996 have an on board diagnostics system that monitors emissions related components, and alerts the driver to problems by triggering the “ Service Engine Soon ” or “ Check Engine ” light. This light helps detect problems before they become noticeable to the driver. If the light comes on, then drivers should consult the vehicle’s owner’s manual.

• • • Replace the dirty air filter -  An air filter works hard on freeways and roads and collects dust, dirt and debris. A new and functioning air filter will provide better fuel mileage .

• Cooling System - The cooling system keeps the engine at its optimal operating temperature. Systems outside of the cooling range, increases fuel consumption, and emissions and engine wear. The engine’s cooling system will only run properly, if it receives regular maintenance. This includes monitoring the coolant level in the overflow tank, regularly inspecting hoses for cracks or loose clamps and adjusting belts. Coolant degrades over time and because of this, antifreeze concentration should be tested every fall so that the engine will be protected for winter. A clogged air filter will decrease fuel efficiency also. The air filter helps protect the inside of the engine from impurities. Clogged air filters can decrease gas mileage by up to 10 percent.

• Regular maintenance of a vehicle’s ignition system is important in maximizing fuel efficiency. The spark plugs in a gasoline engine ignite the air fuel mixture. If one or more of the plugs are worn or malfunctioning, then the engine will misfire and some fuel will remain unburned. Worn or damaged spark plug wires can also cause misfiring. A misfiring engine wastes fuel. It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations on engine checks and spark plug and ignition wire replacement, because problems with the ignition system are usually too subtle to see.

So to conclude , A poorly maintained vehicle can boost fuel consumption by 50 percent, and greenhouse gases by even more. The best way to keep our vehicle running clean is to follow the maintenance instructions in the owner’s manual. It’s not a good idea to guess at maintenance. To get maximum fuel economy, our vehicle should be maintained to the standards recommended in the owner’s manual. By understanding how different vehicle components affect fuel efficiency will allow us to better appreciate the importance of maintenance, and our role in keeping our vehicle in peak running condition.

Tags :- Save Fuel , Fuel Efficient Tips , Car Maintenance tips , Maximum fuel economy , Tips to maximize Fuel efficiency , Engine Tuning , Save Money on Fuel , Tire pressure Tips , Oil Maintenance