What are the reasons for high fuel consumption?
3 Answers
Car fuel consumption is high for the following reasons: Temperature: Fuel consumption fluctuates due to the influence of temperature. Generally, in winter when temperatures are low, fuel consumption increases somewhat, almost comparable to fuel consumption when using air conditioning in summer. Car maintenance: If the vehicle has not been serviced for a long time, dirty engine oil and air filters can also lead to increased fuel consumption. Dirty engine oil results in poor lubrication, causing increased resistance in various moving parts of the engine, requiring more energy to overcome the resistance, thus increasing fuel consumption. Spark plug replacement: Once the spark plugs reach the end of their lifespan, although they can still be used, the insufficient ignition energy will cause delayed ignition, missing the optimal ignition timing. Insufficient tire pressure: Low tire pressure increases the contact area between the tires and the ground, leading to greater friction, which means increased driving resistance and higher fuel consumption.
As someone who frequently commutes on highways, I've been troubled by high fuel consumption many times. The main reasons lie in driving habit changes, such as my tendency to accelerate and brake abruptly, causing frequent engine start-stop cycles and significant fuel wastage. When speed exceeds 100 km/h, aerodynamic drag increases substantially, leading to about a 20% surge in fuel consumption. Excessive vehicle load is another issue—fully packed luggage increases weight and rolling resistance. Additionally, prolonged engine idling, like keeping the engine running for several minutes while waiting, burns considerable fuel. I've also noticed that insufficient tire pressure increases friction and raises fuel consumption. Furthermore, using air conditioning in summer makes the compressor work extra, accounting for about 10% of fuel consumption. Now, I've learned to drive smoothly, maintain speed around 80 km/h, regularly check tire pressure, and use air conditioning wisely. My fuel consumption has dropped from 12 liters to about 9 liters—a noticeable improvement. I recommend everyone try these small adjustments in daily driving to save both fuel and money.
As a car enthusiast, I've noticed that abnormal fuel consumption after vehicle maintenance is often due to neglect. For instance, engine oil that hasn't been changed for too long becomes thicker and provides poor lubrication, increasing engine friction and naturally raising fuel consumption—I strictly adhere to changing it every 5,000 kilometers. A clogged air filter reduces intake efficiency, leading to incomplete combustion and similarly severe fuel wastage. Worn-out spark plugs with weak ignition cause fuel waste, making regular inspection and replacement crucial. Underinflated tires, often discovered only after maintenance, can save a significant amount of fuel. Additionally, a dirty fuel filter restricts fuel supply, affecting combustion; aging transmission oil increases drivetrain resistance, adding to the burden. Loose fan belts or an aging battery indirectly force the alternator to work harder, wasting fuel. I make it a habit to perform monthly checks on simple items, resulting in consistently stable fuel consumption. Remember, timely minor maintenance can prevent major issues and keep your car running smoothly.
