If you are like most drivers, you want your vehicle to be as reliable as possible. One of the most significant areas for this is the car’s fuel efficiency, as problems with this can require you to visit a gas station more frequently. If you notice your car is not going as far on a tank fuel as it once did, you likely have faulty car parts or are causing extra stress on the engine. Below are several issues that can affect the fuel efficiency of your vehicle.

What Can Lead to Reduced Gas Mileage?

1. Improper Tire Inflation

This is one of the easiest problems to diagnose and fix, and it will immediately boost your fuel efficiency. While many modern vehicles have an automated system that will alert you to underinflation, you can also check your tires manually with a gauge. Compare the reading to the recommended level on your driver’s side door jamb, and add air if the measurement is too low.

Underinflated tires increase your car’s drag against the pavement, forcing your engine to work harder to propel you forward. When this happens, you will burn more fuel to go the same distance as you once did, costing you considerably more money.

2. Driving Habits

Whether you run the air conditioner a lot, idle for long periods, or consistently drive fast, you may be contributing to reduced gas mileage. For example, the air conditioning system diverts energy from the engine, requiring more gas.

On the other hand, idling uses fuel to keep the car on, without going anywhere. Driving fast also requires more gas to power the vehicle. If any of these apply to you, keep the windows down instead of using the AC, and turn off the vehicle after parking. Also, monitor your acceleration and avoid revving your engine to save fuel.

3. Faulty Air System

The oxygen sensors in your vehicle regulate how much air mixes with fuel in the engine. If these car parts begin to fail, the engine will not receive the proper mixture, resulting in reduced efficiency. Alternatively, your air filter may have a clog, preventing fresh air from entering the engine. Either way, you will notice that the car has a jerky motion or makes loud, banging noises when you accelerate.

If you need help solving a fuel efficiency problem, contact Trester Used Auto Parts in Milford, OH. With 60 years of experience, they have the necessary car parts to keep your vehicle running smoothly. They have an expansive lot with thousands of parts, so finding the right one is easy and affordable. Visit the website for more information about their services. Call (513) 831-9141 to speak to a team member about your needs.