15 Tips to Increase Car Mileage : Fuel Efficiency Hacks

We all know that fuel prices can be an unpredictable nightmare since it keeps fluctuating every other day. That's why it's more important than ever to know how to increase the mileage of your car. Not only will it save you money in the long run, but it's also great for the environment. Think of your car's fuel efficiency as a garden hose—the smoother the flow of water, the less wastage there is. Similarly, the more efficiently your car uses fuel, the less petrol or diesel it will consume, leading to an increased average of your car.

If you're always looking for ways to save money at the petrol pump without sacrificing your driving experience, then this blog is just for you. We’ll be discussing how to increase the mileage of your car with some quick and easy fuel efficiency hacks. Whether you're driving an old yet dependable clunker or a brand-new sports car, these tips will help you improve car mileage and get good mileage in your car no matter what.

We'll also learn about the best speed for mileage in a petrol car, how to increase mileage, and how to increase car mileage with AC and without AC. These fuel efficiency hacks are easy to follow and will help you get better mileage from any car in no time. So, sit back, buckle up, and get ready to take notes because we're about to show you how to get the most out of every drop of fuel.

Here are 15 fuel efficiency hacks that can help you get better mileage from any car:

1. Tyre Pressure: The Importance of Checking Regularly

One of the simplest yet most important ways to improve your car's fuel efficiency is by maintaining the correct tyre pressure. Underinflated tyres can increase the rolling resistance of your car, requiring more energy and fuel to move forward. Conversely, overinflated tyres can cause excessive wear and tear on your tyres, leading to premature tyre failure and poor handling. 

Therefore, it's crucial to check your tyre pressure regularly, ideally once a month, and adjust it as necessary according to your car's specifications. A tyre pressure gauge is an inexpensive tool that can help you achieve this goal. By keeping your tyres at the optimal pressure, you can improve your car's fuel efficiency, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Read More : How To Calculate Your Car’s Mileage Correctly?

2. Aggressive Driving: How It Can Hurt Your Fuel Economy

Aggressive driving, such as excessive acceleration, braking, and speeding, can significantly reduce your car's mileage. When you accelerate aggressively, you burn more fuel to achieve the desired speed, and when you brake hard, you waste the energy that you have already used to reach that speed. Similarly, when you drive at high speeds, you encounter more air resistance, increasing your car's aerodynamic drag and fuel consumption. 

Therefore, it's essential to practise fuel-efficient driving habits, such as accelerating smoothly, maintaining a steady speed, and anticipating traffic flow. By avoiding aggressive driving, you can improve your car's fuel efficiency by up to 30%, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Read More : Highest Mileage CNG Cars in India in 2023

3. Cruise Control: Your Ally on the Highway

Cruise control is an excellent tool for improving your car's fuel efficiency, especially on the highway. By maintaining a constant speed, cruise control can help you avoid unnecessary speed fluctuations that can reduce your car's fuel efficiency. Moreover, by reducing the workload on your engine, cruise control can help you save fuel and prolong the life of your car's components. 

However, it's important to use cruise control wisely, especially in hilly or windy terrains, where frequent speed adjustments may be necessary. Additionally, it's crucial to avoid using cruise control in heavy traffic, where sudden stops and speed changes are common. By using cruise control correctly, you can improve your car's fuel efficiency by up to 7% saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.

Read More : Best Mileage Cars Below 6 Lakhs in India – Price, Mileage, Specifications

4. Weight Reduction: Shedding Pounds for Better Mileage

One of the easiest ways to improve your car's fuel efficiency is by shedding some weight. The more weight your car carries, the more energy it needs to move, and that means more fuel consumption. Therefore, it's essential to remove any unnecessary items that add weight to your vehicle.

For example, you can clean out your car and remove any clutter such as extra clothing or sports equipment that you may not need. Another way to reduce weight is by removing any unnecessary heavy tools from your car as it adds extra weight to your car which also negatively affects fuel efficiency.

Read More : Best Mileage Cars Below 8 Lakhs in India

5. Motor Oil: Choosing the Right Grade for Better Fuel Efficiency

Choosing the right grade of motor oil is crucial in improving fuel efficiency. Most cars have an owner's manual that lists the recommended oil grade, and it's essential to follow those recommendations. Using the right oil grade can lower friction in your engine, which, in turn, improves fuel economy.

Moreover, you can choose synthetic oils that are engineered to flow more smoothly through your engine, thereby reducing friction and providing better fuel economy. Synthetic oils also tend to last longer than conventional oils, which means you can save money by extending the time between oil changes.

Read More : Engine Oil Grades: Understanding the Different Types

6. Idle Reduction: Save Fuel by Turning Off Your Engine

Idling your engine when it's not necessary is a waste of fuel and can reduce your car's fuel efficiency. For instance, if you're waiting for someone or in a traffic jam, it's better to turn off your engine rather than keep it running.

In India, it's common to leave your engine idling for long periods, especially during hot weather when the air conditioning is running. However, it's essential to turn off your engine whenever possible, as it can help you save fuel and improve your car's fuel efficiency. You can also reduce idling by planning your trips to avoid heavy traffic and finding alternate routes.

Moreover, it's important to note that newer cars come equipped with an auto-start-stop feature that automatically turns off the engine when it's not needed, such as at a stoplight or in traffic. Therefore, if you're planning to buy a new car, look for this feature as it can significantly improve your fuel efficiency.

7. Car Maintenance: The Key to Better Mileage

Regular car maintenance is one of the most critical factors when it comes to improving your car's fuel efficiency. Keeping your car in good working order not only reduces emissions but also helps your car run more smoothly, reducing fuel consumption.

Maintaining your car's engine is a crucial part of car maintenance. It is recommended to change your oil and oil filter every 5,000 kilometres or as recommended by your car manufacturer. A clean air filter will also improve your fuel efficiency, as it allows air to flow freely into the engine, reducing fuel consumption. 

Other critical maintenance factors include regular tune-ups, fixing any engine warning lights promptly, and ensuring that your car's aerodynamics are not compromised by any damage. All of these steps will help to keep your car running at its most efficient level, reducing fuel consumption, and saving you money in the long run.

Read More : Car Maintenance Tips for Optimal Performance

8. Fuel-Efficient Driving: The Art of Conserving Fuel

Fuel-efficient driving is an art form that can significantly reduce your fuel consumption and save you money. One of the essential rules of fuel-efficient driving is to drive smoothly and avoid rapid acceleration and braking. This type of driving increases fuel consumption by up to 40%.

Another important factor in fuel-efficient driving is to maintain a constant speed as much as possible. Avoiding unnecessary idling and maintaining a steady speed on the highway can reduce your fuel consumption by up to 33%. Also, it is essential to anticipate traffic and road conditions and adjust your driving accordingly. This means avoiding heavy traffic, taking routes with fewer stops and starts, and avoiding driving during peak traffic hours.

9. Trip Planning: How to Reduce Your Mileage

Effective trip planning can significantly reduce your mileage, saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint. The first step in trip planning is to identify the most efficient route to your destination. This means avoiding congested roads and taking the most direct route. Additionally, you should avoid rush hour and consider leaving earlier or later to avoid heavy traffic.

Another key aspect of trip planning is to avoid making multiple short trips. Combining errands into one trip can save you time, fuel, and money. Also, consider using public transportation or carpooling when possible, which not only reduces fuel consumption but also reduces traffic congestion and emissions.

10. Air Conditioning: The Impact on Your Fuel Economy

Air conditioning is a common feature in modern cars, providing a comfortable driving experience. However, it can have a significant impact on your fuel economy. When you turn on your car's AC, it puts an extra load on the engine, which means it requires more fuel to maintain the same speed. 

According to the US Department of Energy, using the air conditioner can reduce a vehicle's fuel economy by as much as 25%. This means that if your car gets an average of 10 km/l, using the AC could reduce your mileage to 7.5 km/l.

To improve your fuel efficiency while still using your car's AC, consider using it only when necessary. On cooler days, try using the fan-only setting instead of the AC. Also, park your car in a shaded area to keep it cooler when parked, reducing the need for AC when you start your journey.

Read More : Tips on How to Effectively Use Your Car AC this SUMMER!

11. Open Windows: How It Affects Your Mileage

Driving with your windows open is a great way to enjoy the fresh air and feel the breeze. However, it can abbreviate your car's fuel efficiency. When you open the windows, it creates drag on your car, which makes it harder for your engine to maintain speed. This, in turn, means that your engine requires more fuel to maintain the same speed.

According to a study by SAE International, driving with the windows down can reduce a vehicle's fuel economy by up to 8%. This means that if your car gets an average of 10 km/l, driving with the windows down could reduce your mileage to 9.2 km/l.

To improve your fuel efficiency while enjoying the fresh air, consider using the AC instead of opening your windows, especially when driving at high speeds. Alternatively, if the weather is cool enough, consider turning off the AC and opening just one or two windows slightly.

12. Roof Racks: The Hidden Culprit of Poor Fuel Efficiency

Roof racks are a popular accessory for car owners in countries like the USA and UK, allowing individuals to carry extra luggage or equipment in their cars. However, roof racks are not as common in India. Though legal, these additional storage companions can have a significant impact on your car's fuel efficiency. When you install a roof rack, it creates extra drag on your car, which means your engine has to work harder to maintain speed. This, in turn, means that your engine requires more fuel to maintain the same speed.

According to a study by Consumer Reports, driving with a roof rack can reduce a vehicle's fuel economy by up to 5%. This means that if your car gets an average of 10 km/l, driving with a roof rack could reduce your mileage to 9.5 km/l.

To improve your fuel efficiency while still using a roof rack, consider removing it when you don't need it. When you do need it, pack your luggage or equipment in a way that reduces drag, such as placing heavier items on the bottom and using a wind deflector to reduce drag.

13. Fuel Quality: The Link to Fuel Economy

Fuel quality can have a significant impact on fuel economy. The lower the quality of fuel, the lower the fuel economy. Poor quality fuel can contain contaminants and impurities that can clog the fuel injectors, reducing fuel flow and mileage. Ethanol blends can also impact fuel economy, as ethanol has less energy content per litre than conventional fuel. 

However, modern engines are designed to run on ethanol blends, so it is important to check your owner’s manual for the recommended blend for your vehicle.

To improve fuel economy, it is recommended to use high-quality fuel from reputable fuel stations. Look for fuel with a higher octane rating, as this can improve fuel economy in some vehicles. Additionally, fuel additives can be used to clean the fuel system and improve mileage.

14. Optimal Speed: Finding the Sweet Spot for Mileage

The speed at which you drive can have a significant impact on fuel economy. The faster you drive, the more wind resistance your vehicle will face, requiring more power to maintain speed and reducing fuel economy. According to the US Department of Energy, fuel economy decreases significantly at speeds over 80 km/h.

To optimise fuel economy, it is recommended to drive at a consistent speed within the sweet spot for your vehicle, typically between 80-90 km/h. In stop-and-go traffic, it is recommended to accelerate gradually and smoothly and avoid sudden stops and starts.

15. Alternative Transportation: Reducing Your Mileage Footprint

While there are many tips for improving fuel efficiency in your car, reducing the number of miles you drive is the most effective way to save fuel and reduce your carbon footprint. Alternatives to driving alone include public transportation, carpooling, cycling, and walking.

Using public transportation can be an efficient way to get around while reducing your mileage footprint. Carpooling with coworkers or friends can also reduce the number of vehicles on the road and save fuel. Cycling or walking for shorter trips is not only environmentally friendly but also provides the added benefit of exercise.

If you do need to drive, consider planning your trips to consolidate errands and reduce the overall number of trips. You can also look for opportunities to work remotely or telecommute, reducing the number of trips you need to make. By reducing your mileage footprint, you can save fuel and reduce your impact on the environment.

Fun Facts, Stats, And Trivia About Mileage

• The average fuel economy of new cars sold in India is 18.6 km/l  according to the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM).

• A car's mileage can drop by as much as 33% when driving at speeds over 80 km/h, as wind resistance increases exponentially with speed.

• Regular engine maintenance, such as cleaning or replacing air filters, can improve a car's mileage by up to 7% according to the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.

• A study by the International Energy Agency found that Indian vehicles have the lowest fuel economy among major car markets, with an average of just 17.2 km/l.

• Using cruise control on highways can improve fuel efficiency by maintaining a steady speed, and reducing unnecessary acceleration and braking. According to a study by the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, using cruise control can improve fuel efficiency by up to 14%.

• Underinflated tyres can decrease a car's mileage by up to 3% according to the Indian Automotive Tyre Manufacturers' Association. Maintaining correct tyre pressure can also extend the life of your tyres and improve safety.

• Turning off the engine during long waits, such as at railway crossings or traffic signals, can improve a car's fuel efficiency and reduce emissions. According to the Indian Ministry of Road Transport and Highways, a car consumes around 0.15 to 0.2 litres of fuel per minute while idling.

• Heavy traffic and frequent stops can lower a car's mileage, as acceleration from a standstill consumes more fuel than maintaining a steady speed. The Indian city with the worst traffic congestion, according to TomTom Traffic Index 2021, is Bengaluru, followed by Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai.

• The Indian government has introduced the Bharat Stage (BS) emission standards to regulate vehicle emissions. BS-VI, the latest and strictest standard, was implemented nationwide on April 1, 2020, and requires vehicles to meet stringent emission limits. Vehicles meeting BS-VI standards are expected to have better fuel efficiency compared to their predecessors.

• Eco-driving techniques, such as accelerating gradually, driving at a steady speed, avoiding rapid acceleration and hard braking, and anticipating traffic flow, can improve fuel efficiency by up to 25% according to the Indian Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. By practising eco-driving, you can save fuel and reduce your carbon footprint.

The Bottom Line

In conclusion, improving your car's fuel efficiency is not rocket science. It is the combination of small but effective habits that can make a big difference. Keeping your tyres inflated, reducing unnecessary weight, using the correct grade of motor oil, and planning your trips efficiently can all contribute to better mileage. Aggressive driving, excessive idling, and the use of air conditioning can all negatively impact your fuel economy. By being mindful of your driving habits and making simple changes, you can save a significant amount of money on fuel costs and reduce your carbon footprint.

By following the fuel efficiency hacks we've shared in this blog, you can easily boost your car's mileage. Remember, every small step counts towards a greener and more sustainable future. So, whether you're a car enthusiast or a daily commuter, make sure to implement these fuel efficiency hacks to get the most out of your vehicle while reducing your impact on the environment.

FAQs

Q. How do I increase my car mileage?

You can increase your car mileage by maintaining your car properly, driving efficiently, using the correct fuel and tyre pressure, reducing weight, and avoiding unnecessary idling and aggressive driving.

Q. Which gear gives the best mileage in a car?

The gear that gives the best mileage in a car depends on several factors, including the engine and the driving conditions. Generally, using a higher gear and maintaining a steady speed can improve fuel efficiency.

Q. Why is my car mileage so low?

Several factors can cause low car mileage, including poor maintenance, incorrect tyre pressure, aggressive driving, excessive idling, using low-quality fuel, and carrying excessive weight. It is important to identify and address the specific issue causing the low mileage to improve fuel efficiency.