Driving

How to Maximize the MPG of Any Vehicle

Gas prices are climbing again. Here’s how you can get more out of every tank.

Less Stop-and-Go

Fuel use spikes when you accelerate hard and brake late. Most of the waste happens in those transitions.

Give yourself more space in traffic. Ease into acceleration. Let the car slow naturally instead of braking at the last second.

The goal is simple: fewer sharp changes in speed.

Check Your Speed

Fuel efficiency drops as your speed increases. The difference between 65 and 75 is not just time— it’s literally more fuel.

Improve MPG by staying within speed limits. And on the highway, drive with  the slower flow of traffic..

Check Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure increases resistance and forces the engine to work harder.

Check pressure monthly and after big temperature swings. Use the PSI number on the door jamb, not the tire sidewall.

This is one of the easiest ways to save on gas.

Dump Extra Weight

More weight means more fuel burned. Removing just 100 pounds can save gas.

Clear out any unused gear in your trunk or truck bed. Consider removing cargo boxes and roof racks when not in use. 

Windows vs A/C

At lower speeds, open windows are fine.

At highway speeds, they create drag that can decrease efficiency. In most cases, using A/C at higher speeds is the better option.

Use Cruise Control Strategically

On flat highways, cruise control helps keep fuel use steady.

On hills, it can do the opposite by pushing acceleration too aggressively. Use it when the road allows for a consistent pace.

Combine Short Trips

Engines are least efficient when they are cold.

Try grouping several short drives into one trip. You will spend more time in the engine’s efficient range and less time burning extra fuel during warmup.

Stay Current on Maintenance

Fuel efficiency drops when a car is not running cleanly.

Oil condition, air filters, spark plugs, and alignment all play a role. These are easy to overlook because the changes happen gradually.

This is where a visit to Auto Lenders Service Center can make a real difference. A quick check of tire pressure, filter condition, and alignment can improve efficiency immediately.

Book a service check up today.

Start With the Right Vehicle

Driving habits and maintenance matter, but vehicle choice sets the baseline. Trade or upgrade to a more fuel-efficient vehicle. (We have plenty of those.)

Some cars are simply built to go further on a gallon. Smaller engines, lighter frames, hybrid systems, and more efficient transmissions all contribute.

Use the Fuel Efficient filter to quickly find vehicles designed with MPG in mind. It’s a simple way to narrow the search if fuel cost is a concern right now.

Shop Fuel Efficient
Apr 21

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