Why is Fuel Consumption Increasing?
3 Answers
There are several reasons why a car's fuel consumption may increase: 1. Insufficient tire pressure. Insufficient tire pressure increases the contact area between the tires and the road, leading to greater friction and driving resistance, which in turn raises fuel consumption. 2. Faulty ignition coil: A faulty ignition coil can cause some cylinders to stop working, reducing power output. However, fuel injection continues as usual without contributing to performance, thereby increasing fuel consumption. Here are some tips to reduce fuel consumption: 1. Maintain proper tire pressure: Both underinflation and overinflation of car tires are problematic. Underinflation increases friction and accelerates wear, while overinflation raises the risk of tire blowouts and damages the shock absorbers. 2. Keep the battery fully charged: A weak battery results in weaker sparks from the spark plugs, reducing ignition energy and increasing fuel consumption. Therefore, ensure the battery is always adequately charged and recharge it promptly when needed.
I often think about the issue of increased fuel consumption. Driving habits are the primary culprit, such as frequently accelerating or braking sharply, which makes the car consume more fuel. Or carrying too much stuff in the car, increasing weight and engine load. Running the air conditioner at full blast, especially in summer when it uses a lot of electricity, also raises fuel consumption. Low tire pressure increases friction with the road, making the car guzzle more fuel. It's recommended to regularly check tires, air filters, and other components, and develop smooth driving habits—avoid unnecessary speeding to save a lot of money.
I also experienced a significant increase in fuel consumption with my family car, mainly due to inadequate maintenance. For example, insufficient tire pressure increases rolling resistance; a dirty air filter restricts engine airflow, leading to incomplete fuel combustion; and an aging engine with declining efficiency naturally consumes more fuel. It's advisable to check tire pressure monthly, clean the air filter during seasonal changes, and perform regular engine maintenance, such as changing the engine oil—don't neglect these small tasks. Also, avoid frequently using the air conditioner at maximum fan speed, as these measures can help control fuel consumption.
