How to Solve High Fuel Consumption in a Minivan?
2 Answers
It is recommended to add a certain amount of detergent when refueling. If the improvement is not noticeable, it indicates excessive carbon buildup in the engine, which requires professional cleaning at a 4S shop. Once the oxygen sensor is damaged, it will disrupt the air-fuel ratio of the engine, leading to increased fuel consumption. The oxygen sensor should be replaced. During vehicle usage, the oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter must be replaced regularly.
High fuel consumption in my van had been bothering me for a while. From a driving perspective, habits make the biggest difference. I used to accelerate and brake aggressively, which caused my fuel consumption to skyrocket. Now I've learned to maintain smooth starts and steady speeds—keeping it around 60 km/h in the city and not exceeding 100 km/h on the highway. Also, avoid overloading the vehicle; reducing weight can save a lot of fuel. I check tire pressure regularly—just a 5% drop can increase fuel consumption by 10%, so I keep a tire pressure gauge handy and measure it monthly. During maintenance, I ask the mechanic to replace the air filter—a clogged one reduces intake efficiency. Additionally, avoid prolonged engine idling to warm up the car; just start and drive, as the engine warms up naturally while moving. Adopting these good habits saves me 200-300 yuan in fuel costs each month, plus it’s eco-friendly and safer.
