Like many drivers, you want to save money at the gas pump. That is why you keep track of your fuel consumption to maximize fuel economy and minimize drive costs.

If your high fuel consumption is not caused by bad driving habits like idling, harsh braking, overloading the vehicle, and using the wrong gear, visit an auto mechanic to identify and fix the cause of the problem.

Here are some common factors that can increase your car's fuel consumption, driving up its running costs.  

Old Engine Oil

Old oil causes your engine to run harder to keep your vehicle moving. The harder it runs, the more fuel it consumes, increasing the vehicle's fuel consumption.

To fix the problem, you need to remove the old oil and replace it with fresh oil. Keep in mind that the type of engine oil you use will affect your vehicle's gas mileage. The right oil is essential to keep your engine working smoothly and efficiently.

Clogged Engine Oil Filter

Your car has an oil filter that removes dirt particles from the oil flowing through the engine. Over time, the dirt that collects on the filter can cause it to become clogged, depriving the engine of the oil it needs to remain well-lubricated.

Oil deprivation due to a clogged oil filter increases wear on the engine but also puts a lot of strain on it, leading to increased fuel usage. If your car is using too much fuel because of a dirty oil filter, changing the filter can help to fix the issue.

Clogged Engine Air Filter

Car engines produce power by burning an air-fuel mixture in the correct ratios.

Just as the oil filter removes dirt particles from the oil flowing through the engine, the air filter traps airborne dirt and prevents it from entering the engine. Over time, the air filter will become clogged by all the dirt particles it catches. A clogged air filter will starve your engine of the air it needs to run efficiently, leading to decreased fuel economy.

Removing and replacing it should help get your car running at peak efficiency again.

Dirty Fuel Injectors

As the name implies, the fuel injectors in your car are responsible for spraying fuel into your engine, facilitating the internal combustion process that powers the vehicle.

If these injectors are dirty or clogged, they will reduce the fuel delivered to the engine, reducing the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. While you may clean dirty fuel injectors in many cases, they may sometimes require replacement.

Whether your car needs new oil, filters, or fuel injectors to run at peak efficiency again, you can count on your local auto mechanic to find and fix the underlying cause of the problem.

Talk to a company like Family Auto Service to book a car repair appointment.

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