Keeping track of gas mileage might sound like the most boring statistic possible, but it tells you a lot about engine performance. Here’s what Heath’s Auto Service wants you to be aware of when it comes to what can affect your gas mileage.
Something Is Broken
If there’s a small problem or malfunction somewhere, either in the engine itself or with sensors that send information back to the car’s computer, that’s going to impact fuel mileage. Often if the problem is one that’s on the smaller end of the scale, you’re not going to get the dreaded check engine light, but you’ll see problems elsewhere. The most common spot for that is going to be in your fuel mileage.
You Skipped Wheel and Tire Services
Your car’s tires and wheels are so important for fuel mileage, but this might be the first time you’ve ever heard that information. That’s because your wheels and tires connect directly with the pavement and the engine is what sends power to move the wheels. If the wheels are out of alignment or out of balance or your tires are in bad shape, that means it takes more effort from the engine to get everything rolling.
Tire Pressure Is Off
Another factor about your tires that’s worth discussing on its own is tire pressure. If your tires have the wrong pressure, whether there’s too much air or too little, that creates difficulties for your engine. Drive around too long with incorrect tire pressure and your car’s engine is forced to work harder to do its job.
You Need Oil Changes More Often
Engine oil keeps your car’s engine running cooler and also helps to lubricate all those moving parts. When the oil is old and collecting a lot of dirt, it can’t keep up. That ends up becoming obvious in terms of problems when you see your fuel mileage dropping. Not sure about where your fuel mileage is? It’s easy to start tracking with a fuel mileage app. Just input data every time you get gas.
You Buy the Wrong Octane Level of Gas
Speaking of gas, if you’re buying a lower octane level of gas than what’s recommended by your car’s manufacturer, your fuel mileage is going to suffer for that decision. Octane level matters far more than you might realize, and it’s a big enough issue to cause some significant issues in terms of your car’s fuel mileage.
Want a more specific answer about what’s keeping your car’s fuel mileage lower than you want it to be? Call us today at Heath’s Auto Service in Scottsdale, AZ and we’ll diagnose the issue.
