Spring Tune-Ups to Maximize Fuel Efficiency
The best car maintenance tips to improve your vehicle’s performance and reduce your environmental impact. It’s a win-win-win — for you, your car and the planet.
By Graham Heeps
Your mechanic can help you keep your vehicle in optimal condition, improving fuel economy and reducing emissions. | PHOTO: GETTY IMAGES/UNSPLASH
Fuel efficiency is a big player in how much pollution a vehicle emits. According to the Environmental Registry of Ontario, 35 percent of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions come from transportation, making this sector the biggest source of emissions. The province assessed emissions in 2005 and has a target of a 30-percent reduction of that GHG emission level by 2030. Every effort contributes to reaching that goal. An easy starting point is reducing fuel consumption — which equates to reduced emissions. So, whether it’s to benefit the environment, or simply to save money at the pump, regular vehicle maintenance can translate to more efficient motoring. “It’s helpful to remember that your car was designed and built to be as fuel-efficient as possible,” says Ryan Peterson, manager of automotive services for CAA Club Group. “By keeping your car in the same mechanical state as when it left the showroom floor, you’re making it the most efficient.” By maintaining the following areas of your vehicle, you can improve your fuel economy and reduce emissions.
Oil change
As you might expect, clean oil is a great place to start. Friction in the engine — or in other mechanical components, such as the transmission — means wasted energy. Oil becomes contaminated over time, reducing its ability to lubricate effectively; fresh oil helps to minimize that friction. Peterson recommends that drivers consult their owner’s manuals and follow the schedules for changing their vehicles’ engine oil and transmission fluid. Many engines can still take conventional oil, but synthetic oil is proving to be the more environmentally friendly choice. Its formulation is better at reducing friction, permitting the engine to run more efficiently and that improves fuel economy. Synthetic oil is also resistant to both oxidization and contamination. Result? Less waste.
Air filter
A clogged air intake makes it harder for the engine to maintain the optimum air-fuel ratio. This can lead to increased fuel consumption, which, in turn, emits more pollutants and reduces overall vehicle performance. Replacing the air filter is not a major service, and a clean air filter has a substantial impact on both the engine and fuel efficiency. The engine air filter is generally easy to access in many models and can be checked at the same time as your oil change, though it doesn’t need to be replaced every time (unless it’s dirty). Check the owner’s manual to see the suggested service interval; however, if you’re often on dusty, dirty roads or sandy areas, your air filter may need more frequent attention.
“It’s helpful to remember that your car was designed and built to be as fuel-efficient as possible. By keeping your car in the same mechanical state as when it left the showroom floor, you’re making it the most efficient.”
Tire pressure
Worn tires are another area where energy may be wasted. Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure you are running the correct pressures as indicated on the sticker inside the vehicle’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Note that the pressure listed on the sidewall of a tire is the tire’s maximum and may not be the most appropriate pressure for your specific vehicle. Be aware too that some vehicles require different pressure levels between the front and back tires. Optimal tire pressure will help to maximize fuel efficiency while also enhancing vehicle safety. As well, it reduces the risk of a tire failure due to underinflation.
Peterson also warns against overinflation in search of even greater fuel mileage, which will reduce the vehicle’s ability to grip, brake and steer as it should. “The quality of tire can also make a difference to gas mileage,” he adds. “More expensive, higher-quality tires can help pay for themselves in fuel savings over the life of the tires, thanks to lower rolling resistance, as well as providing better traction.”
Brake maintenance
Poorly maintained brakes can lead to the pads dragging on the disc. This wastes more energy, as friction slows the car down, requiring more pressure on the gas pedal and, ultimately, decreased fuel economy. “If it’s been a few years since your vehicle was properly maintained, take it to a mechanic for inspection,” says Peterson.
Finally, remember that even a perfectly maintained vehicle will not return to its optimum fuel efficiency if driven aggressively. Lower cruising speeds, gentle acceleration and avoiding cruise control on steep hills will all help the car to burn less fuel. Driving smart, paired with proper maintenance and engine care, doesn’t just save money at the pump. It also reduces emissions, cuts unnecessary wear and tear and extends the life of your vehicle.
In the big picture, that means fewer resources consumed, less waste generated by the auto industry and a smaller environmental footprint every time you get behind the wheel. CAA
Click here to download a fuel efficiency checklist.
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Oil change
As you might expect, clean oil is a great place to start. Friction in the engine — or in other mechanical components, such as the transmission — means wasted energy. Oil becomes contaminated over time, reducing its ability to lubricate effectively; fresh oil helps to minimize that friction. Peterson recommends that drivers consult their owner’s manuals and follow the schedules for changing their vehicles’ engine oil and transmission fluid. Many engines can still take conventional oil, but synthetic oil is proving to be the more environmentally friendly choice. Its formulation is better at reducing friction, permitting the engine to run more efficiently and that improves fuel economy. Synthetic oil is also resistant to both oxidization and contamination. Result? Less waste.
Air filter
A clogged air intake makes it harder for the engine to maintain the optimum air-fuel ratio. This can lead to increased fuel consumption, which, in turn, emits more pollutants and reduces overall vehicle performance. Replacing the air filter is not a major service, and a clean air filter has a substantial impact on both the engine and fuel efficiency. The engine air filter is generally easy to access in many models and can be checked at the same time as your oil change, though it doesn’t need to be replaced every time (unless it’s dirty). Check the owner’s manual to see the suggested service interval; however, if you’re often on dusty, dirty roads or sandy areas, your air filter may need more frequent attention.
Tire pressure
Worn tires are another area where energy may be wasted. Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure you are running the correct pressures as indicated on the sticker inside the vehicle’s door jamb or in the owner’s manual. Note that the pressure listed on the sidewall of a tire is the tire’s maximum and may not be the most appropriate pressure for your specific vehicle. Be aware too that some vehicles require different pressure levels between the front and back tires. Optimal tire pressure will help to maximize fuel efficiency while also enhancing vehicle safety. As well, it reduces the risk of a tire failure due to underinflation.
Peterson also warns against overinflation in search of even greater fuel mileage, which will reduce the vehicle’s ability to grip, brake and steer as it should. “The quality of tire can also make a difference to gas mileage,” he adds. “More expensive, higher-quality tires can help pay for themselves in fuel savings over the life of the tires, thanks to lower rolling resistance, as well as providing better traction.”
Brake maintenance
Poorly maintained brakes can lead to the pads dragging on the disc. This wastes more energy, as friction slows the car down, requiring more pressure on the gas pedal and, ultimately, decreased fuel economy. “If it’s been a few years since your vehicle was properly maintained, take it to a mechanic for inspection,” says Peterson.
Finally, remember that even a perfectly maintained vehicle will not return to its optimum fuel efficiency if driven aggressively. Lower cruising speeds, gentle acceleration and avoiding cruise control on steep hills will all help the car to burn less fuel. Driving smart, paired with proper maintenance and engine care, doesn’t just save money at the pump. It also reduces emissions, cuts unnecessary wear and tear and extends the life of your vehicle.
In the big picture, that means fewer resources consumed, less waste generated by the auto industry and a smaller environmental footprint every time you get behind the wheel. CAA
Click here to download a fuel efficiency checklist.