How to Deal with High Car Fuel Consumption?
2 Answers
Reasons and solutions for high car fuel consumption: 1. Tires: If the tire pressure is insufficient, fuel consumption will increase. If the tire pressure is normal, check the wear level of the tires. Severe tire wear often leads to slipping, which also increases fuel consumption. 2. Engine: If there is a significant buildup of carbon deposits in the engine over a short period, it can cause higher fuel consumption. The solution is to add a certain amount of cleaning agent when refueling. If the effect is not noticeable, it indicates a substantial buildup of carbon deposits in the engine, in which case it is best to take the car to a 4S shop or repair shop. 3. Oxygen Sensor: As an internal control unit in the car, the oxygen sensor primarily monitors the fuel-air ratio in the engine. Once damaged, it can cause an imbalance in the fuel-air ratio, inevitably leading to abnormally high fuel consumption. After the oxygen sensor is damaged, the vehicle will emit darker-colored exhaust from the tailpipe while driving. The solution is to replace the oxygen sensor as soon as possible.
When my car's fuel consumption suddenly increases, the first thing I consider is whether it's due to driving habits. I've noticed many people drive with the AC on while aggressively stepping on the gas pedal or frequently accelerating hard on highways—these habits are major fuel guzzlers. Low tire pressure is also a common issue; when tire pressure is about 20% below the recommended level, fuel consumption can increase by 7% to 10%. I use a tire pressure gauge every two weeks to ensure each tire is inflated to the manual's specified value. Additionally, a dirty or clogged air filter forces the engine to work harder to draw in air, burning more fuel. I replace mine annually or every 20,000 kilometers, which only costs a few dozen yuan. Engine carbon buildup is another hidden problem, especially in older cars—regularly adding a fuel additive to clean it out helps. I recommend developing smooth acceleration habits and using cruise control on highways to avoid hard braking. After making these adjustments, I've saved a significant amount on fuel each month while driving more safely and avoiding sudden breakdowns. In the long run, maintaining your car well means fewer trips to the repair shop.
