Why Does Driving in Winter Consume More Fuel?
2 Answers
There are several main reasons why driving in winter consumes more fuel: 1. The viscosity of engine oil used for winter lubrication increases, which adds to the engine load. 2. The outdoor temperature is lower in winter, so the engine takes longer to reach its optimal operating state after starting. As a result, fuel consumption tends to be higher compared to other seasons. 3. Driving before the engine reaches its operating temperature prevents the fuel from burning completely, leading to carbon buildup and higher fuel consumption. 4. Idling to warm up the engine increases fuel injection when the engine temperature is below the normal operating level.
I found that higher fuel consumption in winter is due to the low temperature, which requires the engine to take longer to warm up upon starting, resulting in poor initial combustion and increased fuel usage. The increased air density in cold weather raises aerodynamic drag, forcing the car to exert more power to overcome resistance. Additionally, engine lubricants thicken in low temperatures, increasing operational resistance and reducing efficiency. Using the heater diverts heat from the engine to keep the cabin warm, indirectly adding to the load. Road conditions like snow and ice often lead to slower driving and frequent stops and starts, which consume more fuel. Checking tire pressure is crucial, as cold contraction reduces it, increasing rolling resistance. I recommend warming up the car for one or two minutes before driving in the morning, but not exceeding five minutes to avoid wasting fuel. Regular vehicle maintenance and using winter-grade oil can significantly reduce fuel waste. Combining trips when short-distance driving increases can save a lot of fuel. Paying attention to these small details greatly improves driving economy.
