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Is your car guzzling gas? Here are the signs of poor fuel economy and how to fix it.
If you’ve noticed your car’s gas mileage getting worse, you’re not alone. Many drivers experience a drop in fuel efficiency as their vehicle ages. But what causes this decline and what can you do about it? Let’s take a closer look at the symptoms of bad gas mileage and the steps you can take to get your car back to peak performance.
Symptoms and causes of poor fuel economy
There are several telltale signs that your car is struggling with fuel efficiency:
- Frequent trips to the gas station to refill your tank
- Higher than normal fuel costs
- Reduced driving range on a single tank of gas
- Check engine light turning on
So what’s behind these issues? Some common causes of bad gas mileage include:
- Misfiring spark plugs that waste engine power
- A clogged engine air filter restricts airflow to the engine
- Skipping regular oil changes causes the engine to work harder
- Clogged fuel injectors do not deliver the optimal air-fuel mixture
- Underinflated tyres that increase rolling resistance
- Aggressive driving with speeding and sudden acceleration
- Overusing the air conditioning, especially at low speeds
- Seasonal factors like cold weather increase engine friction
What’s involved in fixing fuel economy issues
To get your car back to its best gas mileage, it’s important to address any underlying mechanical problems. This typically involves:
- Replacing old spark plugs and checking for misfires
- Installing a new engine air filter
- Performing an oil change with the correct oil type
- Cleaning or replacing clogged fuel injectors
- Inflating tires to the proper pressure
- Inspecting the fuel pump, mass airflow sensor, and oxygen sensors
- Checking wheel alignment and brake function
A thorough diagnosis by an experienced mechanic can pinpoint the specific issues affecting your vehicle’s efficiency.
The cost of fuel economy repairs in New Zealand
The price for fixing gas mileage problems can vary depending on the root causes and the make and model of your car. However, here are some rough estimates for common services in NZ:
- Spark plug replacement: $150-300
- Air filter replacement: $80-150
- Oil and filter change: $100-200
- Fuel injector cleaning: $150-300
- Tire pressure adjustment: $0-50
- Wheel alignment: $80-150
More complex repairs like oxygen sensors or fuel pump replacements can run $400+. Neglecting these issues can lead to even costlier problems down the road.
Get your car fixed right with My Auto Shop
When it comes to optimizing your car’s gas mileage, don’t settle for second best. Bring your vehicle to the experts at My Auto Shop. Our mobile mechanics come to you, with upfront pricing and top-notch service. We’ll diagnose your fuel economy issues and get you back on the road with confidence.
Don’t let bad gas mileage drain your wallet. Book an appointment with My Auto Shop today and start saving at the pump!