What Causes a Sudden Spike in Displayed Fuel Consumption?
2 Answers
Displayed fuel consumption suddenly increasing may be due to issues with the spark plugs or excessive carbon buildup in the engine. Spark Plugs: The spark plug is a crucial component of the gasoline engine's ignition system. It introduces high voltage electricity into the combustion chamber, causing it to jump across the electrode gap and generate a spark, thereby igniting the combustible air-fuel mixture in the cylinder. It mainly consists of a terminal nut, insulator, terminal stud, center electrode, side electrode, and shell. Engine Carbon Buildup: During engine operation, unsaturated olefins and gum substances in the fuel produce a coking-like material under high temperatures.
I noticed the displayed fuel consumption suddenly spiked, most likely due to changed driving habits. If you've been frequently driving on highways or making frequent starts recently, the engine has to burn more fuel, causing the displayed value to rise. I've tried stomping on the accelerator a few times while driving, and the fuel consumption immediately jumped by two or three points. Another possibility is insufficient tire pressure, which increases wheel friction, forcing the engine to work harder and naturally raising fuel consumption. I recommend developing a habit of steady-speed driving, starting slowly, and shifting gears promptly. Additionally, regularly check your car's condition, such as inspecting tires and engine oil, to keep the vehicle in optimal shape. Otherwise, minor issues can escalate, keeping fuel consumption high. Using navigation to avoid congested routes can also reduce fuel consumption slightly—I've verified this works. If you still can't figure it out, take it to a repair shop to check the engine and sensors.
