20 Tips to Improve Fuel Economy in Gasoline and Diesel Cars

Introduction

Fuel economy depends on how you drive, how you maintain the car, and what you carry. Small changes add up over thousands of kilometres, and most of them cost nothing. The tips below apply to both gasoline and diesel cars, though diesel engines often reward steady, low rpm driving even more. Always check your owner's manual for the correct fluid specs, tyre pressures, and service intervals.

Driving Habits That Save the Most

Your right foot matters more than any gadget.

1. Accelerate smoothly and shift up early. In a manual, use the highest gear that does not labour the engine.
2. Keep a steady speed. Cruise control helps on flat highways, but not on steep hills.
3. Anticipate traffic and lift off early instead of braking late.
4. Avoid long idling. Modern engines do not need a long warm up.
5. Stay within speed limits. Fuel use rises sharply above roughly 100 km/h.

Maintenance That Protects Efficiency

A neglected car burns more fuel.

1. Check tyre pressures monthly when tyres are cold. Under inflation increases rolling resistance.
2. Use the oil grade stated in the manual. Wrong viscosity costs fuel.
3. Replace clogged air and fuel filters on schedule.
4. Fix a faulty thermostat or oxygen sensor quickly.
5. Keep brakes from dragging and wheel alignment correct.

Cut Weight and Drag

1. Remove roof racks and boxes when not in use.
2. Empty the boot of heavy, unnecessary items.
3. Close windows at highway speed and use vents instead.
4. Keep the car clean and waxed to reduce drag slightly.

Fuel and Route Choices

1. Plan routes to avoid congestion and repeated stops.
2. Combine errands into one trip with a warm engine.
3. Use the recommended octane or cetane rating, not a higher one for no reason.
4. Avoid aggressive use of air conditioning at low speeds.
5. Consider low rolling resistance tyres when replacing worn ones.