Think your Honda car is getting lousy gas mileage? You could be right – and you’re not alone. Nearly every make and model of automobile experiences bad gas mileage from time to time. Thankfully, knowing the main causes of poor fuel economy can help you take corrective action and see better numbers at the pump. Here’s a look at some common offenders.
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Cranking Up That AC Every Time You Step in the Vehicle
It’s no secret that the air conditioner is a gas guzzler. When you use it, your car’s engine has to work harder, which burns more fuel. If you can stand the heat (and we know it can sometimes get unbearable), try cranking up the AC only when necessary. You can save a decent amount on gas over the course of a summer.
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Speeding down the Highway
Putting the pedal to the metal won’t favor your gas mileage. The faster you drive, the more wind resistance your vehicle encounters. This resistance requires more power and effort from your ride, which means it uses more fuel. So, the next time you’re in a hurry, take it easy on the accelerator and enjoy the scenery at a leisurely pace.
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Letting Your Car Idle
We’ve all been there before—stuck in traffic with an idling car. It’s tempting to sit back and let your car do its thing while waiting for the jam to clear, but this is one of the worst things you can do for your gas mileage. When your car is idling, it’s still using fuel, even though it’s not going anywhere. So, try switching off the car when you expect no movement for more than 30 seconds.
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Improper Car Maintenance
If your car isn’t properly maintained, it will show in your gas mileage. Something as simple as keeping your tires inflated to the proper level can make a big difference. Also, regularly changing your air filter will ensure that your engine is running efficiently.
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Incorrect Fuel
Using the incorrect fuel type hurts your gas mileage. Make sure you know what kind of fuel your car requires, and always fill it up with the correct type. Consult the owner’s manual or an experienced expert before choosing the fuel type.
Bad gas mileage is a frustrating problem that many drivers face. But by being aware of the leading causes of bad gas mileage and taking steps to avoid them, you can help improve your gas mileage.
You can also improve gas mileage by being proactive in your car maintenance approach. Frequently scheduling car servicing and repair helps you avoid potentially damaging problems. Of course, your car’s mileage may vary, but hopefully, this gives you a good starting point for improving your fuel efficiency. If you need help getting started, schedule a service with Yuma Honda serving Yuma, AZ. We can help identify any areas of improvement and get you back on the road to better gas mileage.
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