How to Improve your Fuel Economy

Learn what it takes to improve your fuel economy, or help decide if its time to upgrade to a more fuel-efficient model.

There are plenty of reasons why you might want to improve your fuel mileage. The question is, how do you go about doing so? You can approach increasing your fuel economy in several ways, and some of those methods will be more effective than others depending on the age and condition of your vehicle. Keep in mind, your goal is to optimize the engine, and in doing so you optimize your fuel mileage. As part of the Lincoln Family here at Lincoln of Troy, we thought we'd include a few driving tips that can help you save fuel. 

Maintain Your Tires

Keep your tires properly maintained. This includes proper tire pressure, alignment, and tire size. Proper tire pressure reduces the amount of energy the vehicle needs to move. Too low of a tire pressure, and you are causing your engine and transmission to work harder than needed. An improper alignment will also cause unneeded resistance decreasing your fuel efficiency.

One common upgrade for trucks and SUVs includes larger tires, and often suspensions to match. One of the first things you will notice after the upgrade is a decrease in your fuel mileage. This is because it takes a large wheel more effort to start rolling, and because you are also adding more weight to the vehicle.

Air Flow

Your air intake system is crucial for the proper function of your engine. When you press the throttle, you are actually controlling the flow of air into the engine. The vehicle's computer then matches the amount of fuel needed to combust that amount of air. If your engine air filters are clogged, or any part of the air intake is restricted, you will not only waste fuel, but also strain the engine unnecessarily.

The same can be said for the exhaust system. The electronic gas recirculation system on your vehicle is dependent on the exhaust system and a properly working engine. If the exhaust system becomes restricted or develops a leak, your vehicle may calculate improper air-fuel ratios and waste your fuel.

Clean Your Fuel System

Keeping your fuel injectors clean ensures that you get the exact amount of fuel needed into each cylinder. If the computer determines that the flow of fuel is less than it should be, it will continue to dump in more fuel. Use a quality engine cleaner or other method of keeping your fuel system flawless. This can also be said for the fuel filter. A clogged fuel filter will cause the engine to work harder, costing your more fuel in the meantime.

Use Correct Fluids

Using the right oil and fuel type are also key ways to ensure that your engine is running like it has been designed to. Each fluid specification given to your vehicle is done so because those are the parameters the vehicle is built around. If you're still unsure check your owner's manual, and you will see optimal fuel economy.

Your Driving Style

The way in which you drive may be costing you more than you think. Quick acceleration, high idle times, and driving in lower gears for more power can all cost you at the pump. Take is easy when accelerating from a stop. Put your vehicle in the highest gear possible, within reason. You can also pay attention to the body of the vehicle, and make sure you are staying as aerodynamic as possible. Don't forget to keep your gas cap fully sealed.

Aerodynamics

The more aerodynamic your vehicle is, the better fuel mileage you will get. If you have large bulky accessories, do not leave them mounted on the vehicle unless they are being used. Not only will this improve aerodynamics, but it will reduce weight. Both with improve fuel efficiency. 

For more information or to schedule a maintenance service, contact us here at Lincoln of Troy.