With rising fuel prices and fuel shortages in recent months, many Kenyans have been left stranded and forced to dig deeper into their pockets in order to commute by car. These events have brought one of the most discussed topics among car owners to the forefront. The subject at hand is “Fuel Consumption.” Of course, you want the convenience of being able to drive anywhere in your car without having to spend a significant portion of your budget on gas. Here are six effective methods for lowering your car’s fuel consumption.
- Check your Tire pressure
There is a correct tire pressure for every car that not only keeps your car moving smoothly but also keeps your fuel consumption under control. When your tires become deflated, your car uses more and more fuel. Always keep an eye on your tire pressure and repair it as soon as it goes out of whack. Tire pressure should be between 32 and 40 psi.
The recommended PSI for your tires can be found in the owner’s manual or on a label just inside the driver’s side door for more precise information. The correct PSI is critical for your safety and the longevity of your vehicle. Tires that are underinflated might overheat and wear unevenly, while tires that are overinflated can blow out.
- Minimize Engine Idling
If your car is frequently running but you are not going anywhere – for example, while waiting for someone to board the car – your fuel consumption remains constant but your mileage is zero. When you need to wait for something or someone for more than a minute, turn off your engine and wait a few seconds before starting it again.
The same is true if you are stuck in traffic for an extended period of time. Turning off your car engine can reduce fuel consumption, but if you’ve been experiencing engine problems, you should avoid doing so because the car may stall and refuse to start.
- Map out your Route
You probably have one or more destinations to which you must drive more frequently than others, such as work, the supermarket, or your children’s school. You may believe you have the shortest route, but if it is riddled with traffic lights, stop signs, crossroads, and other potential obstacles, your fuel consumption may not be the best at the moment. Try using google maps before leaving your house to find out the best route you can use. Sometimes the seemingly longer route proves to be the best when it comes to fuel consumption as it is not riddled with obstacles and unnecessary traffic.
- Drive smoothly and Avoid flooring the gas pedal
When you’re driving, you often feel compelled to speed, pass other vehicles, and overall act as if you’re in a car race. While this behavior can be exhilarating, it also increases your fuel usage. Keeping your speed at or below the speed limit in your area is the most fuel-efficient way to drive. Also, ensure that you come to a stop when braking as smoothly as possible to avoid wear and tear of the brakes.
- Remove any Excess weight
The more weight your vehicle must transport, the more fuel it will consume. Remove unneeded goods from your boot and seats, including a children’s car seat when not in use, to minimize additional weight in your car. Removing a roof rack can also assist you in losing weight. You can also cease completely filling your petrol tank and only buy as much fuel as you need for a short period of time.
- Only Drive when you need to
This may seem like a no-brainer, but limiting your driving hours can save you a lot of money on gas. Carpooling with coworkers once or twice a week, arranging grocery shopping for when you drive home from work rather than separately driving there, and walking or taking public transportation wherever possible can all help you save a lot of money on gas.
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