What are the reasons for a sudden increase in fuel consumption?
3 Answers
There are several reasons that may cause a sudden increase in fuel consumption: 1. The use of inappropriate fuel may be a factor. 2. Aging spark plugs or excessive carbon buildup can directly reduce ignition efficiency. 3. Issues in the fuel system, such as a dirty or clogged fuel filter or a faulty fuel injector, can also lead to higher fuel consumption. If you notice a sudden increase in fuel consumption, it is best to have your vehicle thoroughly inspected at a repair shop. Additional information: Recommended spark plug replacement intervals are as follows: 1. For nickel alloy center electrodes: If the spark plug's center electrode is made of nickel alloy, it is recommended to replace it every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometers. 2. For platinum or iridium center and side electrodes: If both the center and side electrodes of the spark plug are made of platinum or iridium, it is recommended to replace them every 80,000 kilometers, and clean carbon deposits from the spark plugs as needed. 3. For platinum center electrodes only: If only the center electrode of the spark plug is made of platinum or iridium, it is recommended to replace it every 40,000 to 60,000 kilometers.
I've driven quite a few cars, and when my fuel consumption suddenly increased recently, my first reaction was to check if my driving habits had become more aggressive. For example, frequent rapid acceleration or hard braking, especially in stop-and-go city traffic, can really guzzle fuel. Tire pressure is also crucial—I measured it and found it was low, so I topped it up immediately, otherwise the increased rolling resistance would force the engine to work harder. If engine components like the air filter get clogged, it’s bad news—less air means incomplete combustion, and fuel consumption shoots up. In cold weather, the car needs to warm up, and idling with the AC on more often naturally burns more fuel. Old spark plugs also cause trouble, drastically reducing combustion efficiency. Last time I skipped replacing them during maintenance, and my fuel consumption spiked. I recommend using a mobile app to track fuel refills and mileage—if you notice any red flags, get it checked early at a repair shop. Don’t let it escalate into safety issues, and you’ll save money on car maintenance too.
As an enthusiast who frequently tinkers with my own car, I immediately delve into mechanical details whenever I notice a sudden increase in fuel consumption. Worn spark plugs causing delayed ignition reduce combustion efficiency, leading to higher fuel usage. If the intake system isn't cleaned, a clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to work harder. A faulty oxygen sensor can cause the ECU to inaccurately control fuel injection, wasting gas. In terms of driving resistance, low tire pressure or wheel hub issues increase friction and energy consumption. Changes in load, such as carrying heavy cargo or running the AC at full blast, also directly raise fuel consumption. I recommend using simple tools like a tire pressure gauge and air filter tools for basic checks. For more complex issues, using an OBD scanner to read fault codes can help pinpoint problems. Early adjustments save hassle and extend component lifespan.
