Why Has Fuel Consumption Increased After Car Maintenance?

2 Answers
AlyssaMarie
07/28/25 8:49pm
Here are the specific reasons why fuel consumption may increase after maintenance: 1. Too much engine oil or incorrect oil type: Both can lead to different oil viscosity and increased engine load. To achieve greater power, fuel consumption inevitably rises. 2. Incorrect spark plug type or improper installation: Spark plugs must be of the correct type and should be tightened to the manufacturer's specified torque. Otherwise, gas leakage may occur, with high-temperature, high-pressure gases slowly leaking out. This can cause engine weakness, unstable idle, stalling at high speeds, increased fuel consumption, or even prevent the engine from starting. In severe cases, it can lead to spark plug failure or engine damage. 3. Failure to reset after throttle body cleaning: After cleaning the throttle body, its opening may increase. If the engine control unit is not reset using a diagnostic tool and continues to control air intake and fuel injection based on pre-cleaning parameters, fuel consumption may increase.
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BrooklynLee
08/12/25 1:32am
I also experienced higher fuel consumption right after a car service, it's quite common! The main reasons could be: new engine oil was replaced and the lubricating film hasn't fully spread yet - while lubrication improves, initial uneven friction may temporarily increase oil consumption; a new air filter was installed, increasing air intake which might cause the ECU to mistakenly adjust fuel injection to higher levels; or the engine oil might have been improperly filled - too much increases engine load while too little causes poor lubrication, both leading to higher fuel consumption. Tire pressure might have been adjusted during maintenance - if it's too low, increased rolling resistance naturally consumes more fuel. Don't worry too much, try normal driving for a few days and observe for about a week; if fuel consumption doesn't decrease, return to the service shop to check oil level, tire pressure and filter installation - minor adjustments might solve it.
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