Vehicle Maintenance Vs. MPG:

When was the last time you had your oil changed? Tire pressure checked? Could your fuel filter be clogged? Some of the smallest things, when neglected for too long, can kill your fuel economy. If you have not been having routine maintenance performed on your vehicle, here are some items to have checked or replaced if necessary.

 

Oil Change: It is important to routinely change your engine oil and oil filter at the manufacture's recommended intervals. Engine oil is subject to thermal breakdown and loses its viscosity over time. A well lubricated engine will run smoother and more efficient. Routine oil changes will help to ensure your engine is running in top condition.

Fuel Filter: Over time fuel fitlers become clogged and no longer flow at the rate your engine requires. By making it harder for your engine to pump fuel, you are lowering your engine's performance and fuel economy. Make sure the filter gets replaced at the manufacture's recommended intervals.

Air Filter: Air filters are vital to your engines fuel economy, and a dirty filter will not flow a sufficient amount of air, killing your performance and fuel economy. Make sure to check the condition of your air filter at every other oil change. If it becomes dark and full of dust, replace it. Even better, upgrade to a reusable air filter and save the replacement costs!

Mass Airflow Sensor: The mass airflow sensor measure the rate of air flowing into the engine so that the fuel management system can deliver the engine with the right amount of fuel. If this becomes dirty, the measurements may not be correct and you could be losing fuel mileage. For the DIY'er, cleaning is as simple as taking it off and spraying it with the proper electrical solvent. However, be careful, as this mechanism is delicate and expensive to replace!

Tire Pressure: Tire pressure has an amazing effect on fuel economy. Properly inflated tires provide the least amount of rolling resistance. Improperly inflated tires have been seen to decrease fuel economy by as much as 5 percent. However, make sure not to over-inlfate your tires; this makes your vehicle unsafe to operate and will not get you better fuel economy. All tires are labeled with the PSI at which they should be inflated.

Spark Plugs: Spark plugs are essential for complete combustion to occur. Insufficient spark across the plug will result in poor, incomplete combustion, and therefore lower fuel economy. Make sure to get your spark plugs changed at the recommended intervals. Your engine will perform better, run smoother, start easier, and get better fuel economy if the spark plugs are in good condition.

Ignition Timing And Components: This does not apply to most computer controlled vehicles and vehicles equipped with computer controlled ignition systems. However, for older vehicles and those vehicles equipped with distributors, ignition timing is an important factor in maintaining good fuel economy. If your timing is too retarded or advanced, your engine may not be running less efficient. Set the timing to factory specs and make sure your ignition components are all in good condition to ensure optimum performance.