Why Is My Car Using More Fuel? – Common Causes of Poor Fuel Efficiency - Andrews Car Centre is a Local Garage in Lincoln
Why Is My Car Using More Fuel? – Common Causes of Poor Fuel Efficiency - Andrews Car Centre is a Local Garage in Lincoln
If you’ve noticed that your car seems to be consuming more fuel than usual, you’re not alone. Many drivers experience a drop in fuel efficiency at some point, often without any obvious reason. Understanding the causes behind this can help you save money at the pump and improve your vehicle’s overall performance.
At Andrews Car Centre in Lincoln, we regularly assist customers who are frustrated by rising fuel consumption. In this article, we’ll break down the most common causes of poor fuel efficiency and provide practical tips to help you get the most out of every tank.
1. Incorrect Tyre Pressure
Tyre pressure plays a crucial role in fuel efficiency. When your tyres are under-inflated, it increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to move the vehicle. This added strain results in greater fuel consumption.
Why it happens:
- Natural air loss from tyres over time.
- Temperature changes (tyres lose pressure in colder weather).
- Punctures or slow leaks.
How to fix it:
- Check your tyre pressure regularly (at least once a month) and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
- Inflate tyres as needed, and inspect them for punctures or leaks during routine servicing.
2. Dirty or Clogged Air Filters
Your car’s air filter prevents dirt and debris from entering the engine. Over time, the filter can become clogged, restricting airflow and reducing engine efficiency. This forces the engine to compensate by burning more fuel.
Why it happens:
- Accumulated dust, debris, and grime.
- Driving in dusty or polluted areas.
How to fix it:
- Replace the air filter during regular servicing. Most air filters should be replaced every 12,000 to 15,000 miles, but this varies by vehicle.
3. Faulty Oxygen Sensors
Oxygen sensors monitor the air-fuel mixture in your engine. A faulty sensor can cause the engine to run “rich,” meaning it burns more fuel than necessary. This can lead to significantly reduced fuel efficiency.
Why it happens:
- Wear and tear over time (oxygen sensors typically last around 50,000 to 100,000 miles).
- Exposure to high temperatures and contaminants.
How to fix it:
- If your check engine light is on and you’ve noticed higher fuel consumption, have the oxygen sensors tested and replaced if necessary.
4. Worn Spark Plugs
Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the engine. When spark plugs are worn or misfiring, the engine burns fuel inefficiently, increasing fuel consumption and reducing power.
Why it happens:
- Natural wear from regular use.
- Incorrect spark plug gap or poor-quality plugs.
How to fix it:
- Replace spark plugs according to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule (usually every 30,000 to 50,000 miles).
5. Driving Habits
Aggressive driving, rapid acceleration, and excessive braking all contribute to poor fuel efficiency. Driving at high speeds or constantly accelerating can significantly increase fuel consumption.
Why it happens:
- Sudden acceleration and braking disrupt the vehicle’s momentum.
- Driving at speeds over 60 mph can cause fuel economy to drop rapidly.
How to fix it:
- Drive smoothly, maintain a steady speed, and avoid unnecessary acceleration. Use cruise control on motorways to keep your speed consistent.
6. Engine Oil Quality
Using the wrong type of engine oil can create excess friction within the engine, causing it to work harder and consume more fuel. Low oil levels or dirty oil can also reduce engine efficiency.
Why it happens:
- Skipping regular oil changes.
- Using oil that doesn’t meet the vehicle manufacturer’s specifications.
How to fix it:
- Change the engine oil regularly (typically every 5,000 to 10,000 miles). Always use the oil grade recommended by your car’s manufacturer.
7. Excess Weight and Drag
Carrying unnecessary weight or driving with roof racks increases aerodynamic drag and rolling resistance, forcing the engine to use more fuel.
Why it happens:
- Unnecessary items stored in the boot or roof racks left on when not in use.
- Towing heavy trailers or carrying extra passengers frequently.
How to fix it:
- Remove roof racks when not in use and avoid storing heavy items in the car unnecessarily.
8. Fuel System Issues
Fuel injectors and fuel pumps are vital components that deliver the right amount of fuel to the engine. When injectors become dirty or clogged, fuel delivery becomes inefficient, leading to poor performance and higher fuel consumption.
Why it happens:
- Carbon build-up over time.
- Contaminated fuel or low-quality petrol/diesel.
How to fix it:
- Schedule a fuel system cleaning every 30,000 miles to keep injectors and fuel lines free of deposits.
9. Engine Misalignment or Mechanical Issues
Misaligned wheels, damaged suspension components, or worn brakes can create additional resistance, forcing the engine to consume more fuel to maintain speed.
Why it happens:
- Potholes, curbs, or general wear and tear.
- Poor vehicle maintenance.
How to fix it:
- Have wheel alignment checked regularly and address any suspension or brake issues immediately.
10. Low-Quality Fuel
Using poor-quality or incorrect fuel can reduce engine efficiency and lead to deposit build-up within the engine, affecting performance.
Why it happens:
- Refueling at stations with low-quality petrol/diesel.
- Using fuel with an octane rating lower than recommended for your vehicle.
How to fix it:
- Always use high-quality fuel and stick to the manufacturer’s recommendations for octane rating.
Boost Your Fuel Efficiency with Andrews Car Centre
At Andrews Car Centre, we provide comprehensive servicing and diagnostics to help identify the causes of poor fuel efficiency. Whether it’s an air filter replacement, fuel system cleaning, or tyre check, our experienced technicians will ensure your car runs at its best.
Don’t let high fuel consumption drain your wallet. Book a service today and enjoy better performance, improved fuel economy, and peace of mind on the road.
📞 Contact us now or visit our website to schedule your next appointment.