What are the solutions for high car fuel consumption?
4 Answers
Solutions for high car fuel consumption include cleaning engine carbon deposits, checking the oxygen sensor, and regularly replacing the three filters. Cleaning engine carbon deposits: Excessive engine carbon deposits are a major cause, primarily due to the use of unsuitable fuel. It is recommended to add a certain amount of cleaning agent when refueling. After cleaning, it is best for the driver to drive at high speed for a while, as this helps increase exhaust flow and allows stronger airflow to carry out larger carbon deposit particles. Checking the oxygen sensor: As an internal control unit of the car, the oxygen sensor mainly monitors the fuel-air ratio of the engine. Once damaged, it will cause an imbalance in the fuel-air ratio, leading to a sudden increase in fuel consumption. When the oxygen sensor is damaged, the exhaust pipe will emit darker-colored exhaust gases during driving, and the oxygen sensor should be replaced at this time. Regularly replacing the three filters: During vehicle use, the oil filter, air filter, and fuel filter must be replaced regularly. If not replaced for a long time, they will become dirty and affect performance, sending incorrect information to the engine control unit, resulting in incomplete fuel combustion and increased engine carbon deposits.
The fuel consumption of my old ride has increased, and since I prefer doing things myself, I conducted a thorough inspection. I found that low tire pressure can affect rolling resistance, so I regularly check and inflate the tires using a pressure gauge. If the tires are severely worn, they need to be replaced. Driving habits are crucial—I’ve learned to accelerate and brake smoothly and use cruise control on highways to avoid sudden speed changes. I also reduce unnecessary weight by clearing out clutter from the trunk. Maintenance shouldn’t be neglected; I change the engine oil and air filter on schedule to ensure the engine runs efficiently. If the spark plugs are worn or the oxygen sensor fails, fuel consumption can spike, so it’s best to have a professional shop inspect the fuel system rather than tinkering with it myself. After a few months of these practices, my fuel consumption dropped from around 10 L/100km to about 8 L/100km, saving both hassle and money.
When I first started driving my new car, the high fuel consumption really confused me, so I tackled it by learning more. I looked up common causes, like insufficient tire pressure or aggressive driving, and developed habits such as checking tire pressure before trips, adjusting it to the standard value, avoiding sudden braking, and planning routes with less traffic. High fuel consumption can also be due to poor maintenance—small things like changing the oil and air filter are crucial. I also learned not to blast the AC or to alternate between recirculation and fresh air. Once, I had someone replace the spark plugs due to carbon buildup, and my fuel consumption dropped. I recommend that new drivers regularly check the manual or seek expert advice, not ignoring sensor issues. Over time, fuel consumption stabilizes within a reasonable range.
As someone who saves money carefully, I always find ways to reduce high fuel consumption. Checking tire pressure is the most basic yet effective method—inflate them to the manual's recommended value. When driving, gently press the accelerator and brake smoothly. On highways, using the external air circulation instead of the air conditioner can save a lot on fuel costs. Don’t delay maintenance—change the engine oil and air filter on time to reduce engine wear. If the spark plugs are dirty or the oxygen sensor is faulty, fuel consumption will increase even more. I recommend visiting a repair shop to check the fuel system for simple fixes. By accumulating these tips, lowering fuel consumption can save a few cents per liter, and over a few months, expenses drop significantly—truly cost-effective.
