How Car Condition Affects Gas Mileage
With gas prices increasing slightly, maybe you're becoming concerned about gas mileage.
Are you getting the most from your gasoline dollar?
While a drop in the car's fuel economy may not show up as noticeably on the monthly oil
company bill, the effects could be costing a driver well over $460 a year, according to
the Car Care Council. With figures based on the typical car using 500 gallons of gas a
year at $3.20 per gallon, it works out like this:
1. If the engine needs a tune-up, it could be wasting 15% (or more) of its gas due to
misfiring spark plugs, an inefficient fuel system and malfunctioning emission controls.
The cost: about $20.00 per month.
2. If tires are 8 pounds underinflated, not an uncommon condition, rolling resistance of
the tires increases by 5%. The monthly cost in wasted gas: $6.60.
3. If wheels are just 1/4" out of alignment, another factor that affects rolling
resistance, chalk up another 2% or about $2.60 a month. (Note: This condition, as well as underinflation, accelerates tire wear, thereby adding to the cost of neglect).
4. If the cooling system thermostat is stuck in the open position, causing the engine to
run too cool, engine efficiency may be reduced by another 7%. The monthly cost: $9.30.
That adds up to $38.50 a month down the drain. The Car Council points out that, while
this hypothesis is intended to emphasize preventative maintenance in terms of energy
conservation, it also bears on safety and reduced exhaust emissions.
Another factor not related to vehicle maintenance is driving habits. For every five miles
per hour you press beyond 55 mph, you lose about one mile per gallon. A heavy foot when
the light turns green also guzzles gas.
(This article was reprinted with permission from the Car Care Council.)
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