If you have to fill up your gas tank more often, you may be wondering why your car is suddenly getting fewer miles per gallon. There are a number of reasons why your fuel efficiency may decline and why you may find yourself at a gas station more frequently. Read on to learn more about the top reasons why your car may be using more gas.
Your Tires are Improperly Inflated
If your tires are over- or under-inflated, your vehicle may be using more fuel than it needs to. You should check your tire pressure at least once per month. If you open up your driver’s side door, there should be a sticker that indicates what the recommended PSI is for the tires on your vehicle. If you cannot find this sticker, look at your owner’s manual or ask an auto repair shop what the recommended PSI is for your vehicle.
Parts Within Your Car Need to Be Replaced
Another common reason why your car may be using more gas is that you have a part that is nearing the end of its lifespan, or that has already stopped functioning correctly. Common parts in a car that can negatively affect gas miles include bad oxygen sensors, dirty air filters, misfiring or dying spark plugs, and bad or leaking fuel injectors. An auto repair shop can determine if one or more parts may be failing, causing a decrease in your vehicle’s miles per gallon.
You Are Using the Air Conditioning System a Lot
If you notice a decline in your gas mileage, particularly in the summer, your air conditioning system may be to blame. Running your vehicle’s air conditioning system uses fuel. If it has been hotter outside and you’re trying to get your car cooler, you will notice a decline in your fuel efficiency. When possible, roll down your windows instead to save fuel.
You Have Changed Your Driving Routine
The final reason your car may use more gas is that you have changed your driving routine or driving habits. You burn more fuel in stop-and-go traffic compared to driving on the freeway. If you accelerate rapidly, you can also use more gas. Lastly, leaving your car running when you are at a stop, such as idling while you are waiting for take-out food or in the school kid pick-up line, causes gas usage, which makes it look like you are getting fewer miles per gallon.
If your car is using more gas than before, it may be due to a change in your driving habits, or you may be in need of car repair. If you are looking for a car repair shop that can help you determine why your car is using more gas and what repairs are needed to increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, Morgan Automotive Repair can help. We currently have three Northern California locations, in Tracy, Manteca, Stockton and have a fourth location in Sacramento coming soon. Call us today to schedule an appointment with us.