Boost Your Fuel Efficiency this Fall 2024: Simple Tips for Everyday Driving
As fall settles in, now’s the perfect time to make a few simple tweaks to boost your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. From daily commutes to scenic drives through Vermont’s autumn beauty, these practical fuel efficiency tips will help you save fuel and keep your car running smoothly all season.
Here at Girlington, we understand the importance of keeping your vehicle in peak condition while helping you stretch every dollar. Our focus on quality customer care means we make vehicle maintenance simple and accessible for everyone. In this blog, we’re sharing fuel-saving strategies that you can start using today, no matter what you drive. Let’s get rolling!
Why Fall is the Perfect Time to Get Started
Cooler temperatures can affect vehicle performance, making fall the ideal time to ensure everything runs smoothly. It’s also the perfect season for preventative maintenance to avoid any winter surprises.
You'll enjoy better gas mileage and a stress-free driving experience throughout the colder months by making small changes to your maintenance routine and driving habits.
Check Your Tire Pressure Regularly
Keeping your tires properly inflated is a simple and effective way to boost fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires create more resistance, making your engine work harder. Cooler weather naturally lowers tire pressure, so regular checks are essential.
Quick Tire Tips:
Check tire pressure monthly, especially after temperature drops.
Rotate your tires every 6,000 miles for even wear, and to keep any manufacturer warranty they might have in effect.
Look out for tread wear or uneven patterns. This might indicate the need for an alignment.
If you need help with tire maintenance, we are here to assist!
Stay on Top of Fluid Checks
Fluids are vital for your car’s performance and fuel efficiency. Low or old fluids strain your engine, and other moving components, leading to wasted fuel.
At Girlington Garage, we perform thorough fluid checks as part of our maintenance services to ensure your car runs efficiently.
Key Fluids to Check:
Coolant
Transmission fluid
Brake fluid
Not sure how to check them yourself? We’re happy to help you learn!
Fuel-Efficient Driving Habits
Your driving habits play a huge role in how much fuel your vehicle uses. Aggressive driving—like rapid acceleration, heavy braking, and speeding—can drastically reduce your gas mileage. Instead, focus on fuel-efficient driving habits to get the most out of every tank of gas.
Fuel-Saving Driving Tips:
Avoid sudden starts and stops. This is also a great tip for safe winter driving!
Use cruise control when driving on highways to maintain a steady speed.
Reduce unnecessary idling: modern cars no longer need to warm up before you drive them. In fact, they are more fuel efficient if you turn the car on and go. And it’s better for the environment too! .
By adopting these habits, you'll save fuel and protect key vehicle components.
Preventative Maintenance: Small Efforts, Big Savings
At Girlington Garage, we believe regular preventative maintenance is the key to keeping your vehicle running efficiently and avoiding expensive repairs. Simple tasks like checking belts, hoses, and filters can prevent bigger problems later. For instance, replacing a dirty air filter can boost your fuel efficiency by up to 10%. Keeping your spark plugs in good shape ensures optimal gas mileage. Having a fuel induction service and a fuel injection service performed regularly will clear your throttle body, valves, pistons, and injectors of carbon buildup that can cause excessive fuel consumption as well as other problems.
Key Maintenance Items:
Air filters: A clean air filter ensures better fuel efficiency.
Spark plugs: Worn spark plugs can misfire, reducing fuel efficiency.
Gas caps: A loose gas cap can cause fuel evaporation, wasting gas.
Routine vehicle inspections also help catch issues before they become major problems. During an inspection, our certified technicians check everything from tire condition and alignment to fluid levels and brake function. Regular preventative maintenance and inspections ensure your vehicle remains fuel-efficient and reliable all year long, saving you time and money.
Drive Smarter with Girlington Garage
Staying on top of efficient vehicle maintenance is key to saving money and keeping your car running smoothly. Whether you need a quick fluid check, tire rotation, or a full preventative maintenance service, our expert team has you covered.
Ready to roll? Visit us at 2 Harbor View Rd, South Burlington, VT, or call 802-247-7917. You can also check availability and easily book your appointment online at Girlington Garage. Let’s get your car ready for the fall roads, efficiently and reliably!