Do Fuel Quality/Types/Additives Help
Mileage?
Petrol pump attendants often try to
convince you to go for 'Speed petrol' or 'X-tra Mile diesel'. But this need not
necessarily help improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Always use the grade
recommended for the vehicle by the manufacturer. Higher octane fuel may not only
be a waste of money but may harm the vehicle, as well. However sticking to one
brand of fuel is always good for the engine.
Keep the Windows Closed
Driving with your windows open considerably
reduces mileage, far more than keeping the AC on while driving along highways.
So preferably keep the windows closed and the AC on if you want to keep cool. Of
course the air-conditioning decreases fuel efficiency considerably, so use it
judiciously.
Refill in the
morning/late evening
During these times petrol is densest. Keep
in mind - fuel pumps measure volumes of petrol, not densities of fuel
concentration. You are charged according to "volume of measurement".
Keeping the tyres well inflated is one of
the simplest things you can do to help improve your car's fuel efficiency. You
can improve the mileage by about 3.3 percent if you keep your tyres inflated
properly.
Lighten Your Load
Empty out your boot of unnecessary items.
For every extra 45 kg you carry, your fuel efficiency can drop by 1-2% in a
typical vehicle.
S-L-O-W D-O-W-N
The faster you drive, the more fuel you
use. Driving within the speed limit recommended by the manufacturer helps save
fuel. Driving just 5mph over the speed limit can affect fuel economy by up to
23%. Likewise, quick acceleration consumes too much fuel; accelerate slowly and
gradually.
Tune Your Engine
A well-tuned engine can improve fuel
economy by up to 4%. So change your oil and follow your car manufacturer's
recommendation on servicing.
Clean the Air Filters Regularly
Air filters keep impurities from damaging
your engine. Replacing a clogged air filter can improve fuel economy by as much
as 10%.
Don't Be a
Clutch-Driver
Never keep your foot on the clutch while
driving. When you do this, pressure is being placed on your clutch, and it not
only reduces mileage, but also wears out the clutch plate, replacing which is
not cheap.
Keep the Car in Showroom
Condition
It's always prudent to keep the car in the
showroom condition. Remember that any modification to the car, such as broad
tyres, diffusers etc., will adversely affect the mileage.
