What Are the Reasons for High Car Fuel Consumption?
2 Answers
Car fuel consumption may increase due to insufficient tire pressure, excessive engine carbon deposits, a damaged oxygen sensor, or a malfunction in one of the engine control units. The details are as follows: Insufficient tire pressure: If the tire pressure is insufficient, fuel consumption will increase. If the tire pressure is normal, check the tire wear. Severe tire wear can lead to frequent slipping, which also increases fuel consumption. Excessive engine carbon deposits: Excessive carbon deposits in the car engine can cause high fuel consumption, often related to the use of substandard fuel. Damaged oxygen sensor: The oxygen sensor primarily monitors the air-fuel ratio in the engine. Once damaged, it can cause an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture, leading to abnormally high fuel consumption. Malfunction in an engine control unit: If one of the control units malfunctions, it can result in increased fuel consumption, accompanied by poor engine performance and thick black exhaust emissions.
Last year when I was driving my old car, the fuel consumption suddenly skyrocketed, which felt abnormal. Upon checking, I found that driving habits had a significant impact. For example, I often accelerated and braked abruptly, forcing the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. Additionally, the tire pressure was frequently below the standard value, increasing rolling resistance and wasting fuel. Moreover, the air filter hadn't been replaced for six months, becoming dirty and affecting air intake efficiency. Using the air conditioner in summer also increased fuel consumption, especially during short trips. Later, I adjusted my habits—pressing the accelerator more gently, regularly checking tire pressure and the filter—and the fuel consumption gradually returned to normal. Actually, long-distance highway driving is more fuel-efficient than city traffic congestion because frequent starts and stops consume the most fuel. In short, neglecting these details can quietly increase fuel consumption, but paying a bit more attention can help identify the issues.
