Increase MPG: Easy Ways to Get More Miles per Gallon
Want to stretch every litre of fuel and see real savings at the pump? You don’t need a fancy engine rebuild – just a handful of simple habits and a bit of maintenance. Below are the top tips that actually work, broken down so you can start saving today.
Driving Habits That Add Up
How you drive is the biggest factor in fuel consumption. Gentle acceleration, steady cruising, and early upshifts keep the engine in its sweet spot. Try to keep your speed under 65 mph on highways; each extra 5 mph can waste up to 15% more fuel. When you approach a stop, brake early and coast in gear – it reduces wear and helps the engine stay efficient.
Another quick win is to use cruise control on flat stretches. It holds a constant speed, avoiding the little speed fluctuations that sap fuel. And if you’re stuck in traffic, shut the engine off after a minute of idling – modern cars restart instantly and you’ll see a noticeable drop in fuel use.
Maintenance Checks That Keep the Engine Happy
A clean air filter improves airflow, letting the engine breathe easier. Replace it according to the manufacturer’s schedule or sooner if you drive dusty roads. Bad spark plugs, low tire pressure, and old engine oil all drag down MPG. Keep tires inflated to the recommended psi – under‑inflated tires can lower fuel economy by up to 3%.
Don’t ignore the fuel system either. Using a quality fuel injector cleaner once or twice a year helps maintain proper spray patterns, which means smoother combustion and better mileage. Finally, schedule regular tune‑ups; a misfiring cylinder or a faulty oxygen sensor can cost you hundreds of pounds in wasted fuel each year.
While you’re tweaking the car, think about weight. Remove unnecessary roof racks, heavy tools, or even the spare tire (if you have a reliable repair kit). Every 10 kg of excess weight can shave about 0.5% off your MPG – not huge, but it adds up after many trips.
Putting these habits into practice doesn’t require a garage full of tools or a huge time investment. Start with one change, like checking tire pressure weekly, and watch your fuel gauge improve. Combine a few tips, and you’ll see a real boost in MPG, lower fuel bills, and a smaller carbon footprint – all without compromising performance.
