How to Improve Fuel Efficiency with Simple Driving Habits

Fuel prices can fluctuate, but one thing remains constant: the desire to save money at the pump. Whether you drive a compact sedan or a full-size SUV, improving your fuel efficiency is easier than you think. By adopting a few simple driving habits, you can maximize your vehicle’s mileage and reduce your environmental footprint. Here’s how.

1. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Aggressive Acceleration

Rapid acceleration and hard braking can significantly reduce your fuel economy. By driving smoothly and maintaining a consistent speed, you can improve your vehicle's efficiency by up to 30% on the highway and 20% in the city, according to the U.S. Department of Energy.

Pro Tip: Use cruise control on long highway drives to maintain a steady pace and save fuel.

For more insights, visit FuelEconomy.gov’s tips for efficient driving.

2. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly and ensure it matches the manufacturer’s recommendations (found in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s door jamb).

Why It Matters: Properly inflated tires can improve fuel efficiency by up to 3%.

Learn more about tire maintenance at Michelin’s tire care guide.

3. Lighten Your Load

Carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle can decrease fuel efficiency. For every 100 pounds of extra weight, your vehicle's fuel economy can drop by about 1%. Remove heavy items from your trunk or backseat and only carry what you need.

Quick Tip: Roof racks and carriers can also reduce aerodynamics, so remove them when not in use.

4. Avoid Excessive Idling

Idling wastes fuel and produces unnecessary emissions. If you’re parked for more than a minute, it’s more fuel-efficient to turn off your engine and restart it when needed. Modern engines are designed to handle frequent starts without extra wear.

Did You Know? Restarting your car uses less fuel than idling for over 10 seconds.

For more on idling myths, check out AAA’s idling facts.

5. Use Air Conditioning Wisely

Running your air conditioner can increase fuel consumption, especially at lower speeds. When driving in the city, consider rolling down your windows instead. On the highway, however, open windows can create drag, so it’s better to use the A/C sparingly.

Pro Tip: Use your vehicle’s recirculation mode to cool the cabin more efficiently.

6. Stick to the Speed Limit

Driving at high speeds increases wind resistance, which reduces fuel efficiency. Most vehicles achieve optimal fuel economy between 50-60 mph. For every 5 mph you drive over 60 mph, your fuel efficiency drops by about 7%.

Save More: Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to avoid traffic jams and maintain a steady speed.

7. Perform Regular Maintenance

A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently. Routine tasks like oil changes, air filter replacements, and spark plug checks can improve your fuel economy and extend the life of your car.

Key Maintenance Tips:

• Replace dirty air filters to improve engine performance.
• Use the manufacturer-recommended motor oil for optimal efficiency.

Visit AAA’s car maintenance guide for more tips.

Improving your fuel efficiency doesn’t require drastic changes—small adjustments to your driving habits and regular vehicle maintenance can make a big difference. At LeSueur Car Company, we’re committed to helping you get the most out of your vehicle. Whether you’re looking for a fuel-efficient pre-owned car or expert advice, we’ve got you covered.

Ready to upgrade to a more fuel-efficient vehicle? Explore our inventory at usedvwaudi.com and find the perfect car for your needs.