Why has the fuel consumption suddenly increased?
3 Answers
Here are the reasons for increased fuel consumption: 1. Spark plugs: After prolonged use, the tips of spark plugs can accumulate carbon deposits or become worn, leading to inefficient ignition. Severe cases may cause incomplete combustion of gasoline and reduced power output. To compensate for the lack of power, the vehicle's computer will automatically increase fuel injection, which is a significant reason for increased fuel consumption. If this is the cause, timely replacement of spark plugs is necessary. 2. Oxygen sensor: Another reason for increased fuel consumption could be severe contamination of the vehicle's oxygen sensor. In such cases, the oxygen sensor cannot accurately measure the intake air volume. During operation, this leads to insufficient air in the cylinders, resulting in lower fuel efficiency and consequently higher fuel consumption.
As someone who frequently drives to work, I've recently encountered the issue of a sudden increase in fuel consumption, which is usually due to changes in driving habits. For example, if you've been frequently accelerating or braking hard lately, such as in stop-and-go traffic in congested urban areas, the engine requires more fuel to respond, naturally causing fuel consumption to spike. Or, if the car is carrying a heavy load, like a trunk full of items, it increases resistance. I once noticed a significant drop in the fuel gauge after moving, when the car's weight increased. Adjusting your driving style can help improve this; it's advisable to develop a smooth driving rhythm and reduce unnecessary weight in the car. Of course, if your driving style hasn't changed, there might be an issue with the car that needs checking, but don't rush to the repair shop—first, test the average fuel consumption change yourself for a more reliable assessment.
I always prefer to inspect my car myself. When noticing high fuel consumption, I prioritize checking maintenance issues. For example, a dirty air filter can block the air intake, making the engine work harder and consume more fuel; aged spark plugs lead to inefficient ignition, causing incomplete fuel combustion and waste; or delayed oil changes reduce engine efficiency and increase fuel consumption. Once, I forgot to replace the air filter, and within half a month, my fuel consumption rose by 10%. Regular maintenance of these small components can save both fuel and money. If I can't handle it myself, I'll have someone check if the tire pressure is adequate or if there's any unusual noise in the drivetrain. These minor issues are often overlooked but are major contributors to high fuel consumption.
