Is 14L/100km Fuel Consumption High for a Beginner Driver?
3 Answers
Not high, it's normal for new cars to have higher fuel consumption. The reasons for high vehicle fuel consumption are as follows: 1. Insufficient tire pressure: Low or insufficient tire pressure increases friction between the tires and the ground, leading to greater resistance and higher fuel consumption. 2. Driving conditions: Congested driving conditions can also result in higher fuel consumption because the engine works harder when accelerating the vehicle from a standstill, requiring more fuel injection. 3. Engine shutdown: Short trips can lead to higher fuel consumption because the engine and vehicle just reach optimal temperature before shutting down. 4. Vehicle weight: Carrying excessively heavy loads can cause fuel consumption to exceed normal driving levels.
I've driven quite a few cars, and 14 liters per 100km is indeed on the high side for a beginner. Normally, compact cars are considered fuel-efficient at around 8 to 10 liters, while SUVs or mid-size cars should stay below 12 liters. Hitting 14 liters suggests you might be frequently accelerating or braking hard in city traffic, running the AC at full blast, or driving with underinflated tires - all of which increase fuel consumption. Back when I was learning to drive, my fuel consumption was always above 12 liters too. After mastering techniques like anticipating traffic lights and gentle throttle application, I managed to bring it down to 9 liters. I recommend regular maintenance checks on air filters and spark plugs - these can help new drivers save fuel costs while improving driving stability and safety. Don't get discouraged, it just takes practice.
As a seasoned long-distance driver, I think 14 L/100km is a bit high for beginners. Fuel consumption depends on the car model and road conditions. For a compact car, this figure is abnormal, possibly due to aging or minor issues, so it's necessary to check the fuel system and oxygen sensor. I remember always reminding my apprentices not to coast in neutral or idle for too long, otherwise fuel consumption would spike. Beginners can install a fuel consumption monitoring app to adjust their driving habits in real time, such as avoiding congested periods and minimizing the use of air conditioning or heating. Saving fuel means saving money, and in the long run, it can save you a hundred bucks or so every month, which is quite worthwhile.
