Is High Fuel Consumption Normal for a New Car?

[DiRose]

Normal. A new car consumes one or two more units of fuel during the break-in period compared to after the break-in. If the fuel consumption does not decrease after the break-in period but instead becomes higher than during the break-in, it is necessary to promptly check the car's fuel injectors or throttle body. Below are some driving tips for the break-in period: Avoid high-speed driving: When driving a new car, it is important to control the speed. Excessive speed can cause significant wear and tear on the car, so it is necessary to manage the engine speed, keeping it between 2000 and 4000 RPM, which provides better protection while driving. Avoid overloading the car: An overloaded car requires more power to drive, which can cause varying degrees of damage to different components. Avoid emergency braking: While driving, try to avoid situations that require emergency braking. Braking in advance ensures a smoother stop, reduces impact, and enhances passenger comfort.

[ONolan]

I've been driving for over 20 years and have encountered many cases of high fuel consumption in new cars, which is usually quite normal. The pistons, cylinders, and other components in a new engine need time to break in, and the initial friction is higher, so fuel consumption will be higher. After the first few hundred or thousand kilometers, the fuel consumption naturally decreases. Another reason is driving habits—new drivers tend to accelerate and brake sharply, which burns more fuel. I recommend driving gently during the break-in period, using cruise control more often, and checking that the tire pressure isn't too low. Also, using the air conditioning too much in a new car can increase fuel consumption; in summer, you can use the recirculation mode appropriately. Don't worry too soon—try driving for a month, and if the fuel consumption still exceeds the official value after 5,000 kilometers, then go for a checkup. In short, the break-in period is an inevitable stage—just be patient.

[MacGabriel]

As a young car owner, I also found the fuel consumption quite alarming when I first bought my new car. For example, the SUV I drive has an official rating of 8 liters per 100 kilometers, but in the first month, it actually consumed over 10 liters. This was mainly due to stop-and-go city driving and frequent traffic jams, where I had to constantly press and release the accelerator. Later, I changed my driving habits by anticipating traffic conditions in advance, reducing sudden braking, and regularly replacing the air filter. Gradually, the fuel consumption dropped to normal levels. New car engines need time to learn driving patterns, so higher initial fuel consumption is normal. Also, check if the engine oil grade is correct and avoid using low-quality oil. Try different road conditions to record actual fuel consumption rather than relying solely on the dashboard display. You'll get used to it after a while, so relax and don't worry.

[DiGabriela]

I've experienced high fuel consumption with a new car before, and it's normal to be higher at the beginning. The engine is in the break-in period, and parts need to wear in properly, so it burns more fuel. It's recommended to drive steadily in the first month and avoid sudden acceleration. Check that the tire pressure isn't too low; generally, 2.5 to 2.8 Bar is sufficient. Replace the air filter regularly, as a dirty one affects air intake. Using the air conditioning for the first time also consumes more fuel, so use it moderately. After driving about 2,000 kilometers, check the fuel consumption again—it usually decreases. If it remains consistently high, return to the 4S shop to check for electronic control or sensor issues.

[DiFelix]

I often help friends with car issues, and high fuel consumption in new cars is usually nothing to worry about. The break-in period for new engines leads to higher fuel usage, but driving habits have a significant impact. Rapid acceleration and frequent starts/stops waste fuel, so it's best to drive in eco mode. Additionally, the car's computer is learning and adjusting fuel injection, so initial fuel consumption readings may be inaccurate. If consumption remains high after two months, check tire pressure or engine oil condition. Return to the dealer for data diagnostics—don’t randomly replace parts. Generally, slightly higher consumption in the first few thousand kilometers is normal; prioritize safety and take it slow.

[KeeganLee]

Once I bought a new car with fuel consumption as high as 12 liters per 100 kilometers, while the official rating was only 8 liters. At first, I thought something was wrong, but the technician said it was normal during the break-in period. Engine components need to run smoothly in the first few hundred kilometers, and as friction decreases, fuel consumption drops. Later, I drove more on highways and maintained a steady speed, which saved fuel. The key to recording real fuel consumption is to fill up the tank and calculate based on a full tank. Turning on the air conditioning also consumes a bit more fuel. So don’t worry if it’s higher in the initial period—it’s just a normal transition.