The harmful habits that increase your car’s gasoline consumption

Currently, many drivers ignore the harmful habits that can affect their vehicle’s performance and lead to an increase in gasoline consumption. Factors such as excessive load, poor maintenance, and inadequate driving practices not only affect wallets but also contribute to a higher level of pollutant emissions. It is essential to recognize and correct these behaviors to optimize fuel use and contribute to environmental sustainability.

It is common for motorists to be unaware of the habits that can influence their vehicles’ gasoline consumption. Often, small errors in driving style or inadequate car maintenance can lead to excessive fuel expenditure. In this article, we will explore the most harmful habits that increase gasoline consumption and offer tips to mitigate these issues.

Excess Load in the Vehicle

One of the most obvious factors that increases gasoline consumption is the additional weight being transported in the car. Carrying heavy objects in the trunk, when not necessary, can raise gasoline consumption by about 2%. Every kilogram counts, and a heavier vehicle requires more energy to move, resulting in greater fuel usage. It is advisable to regularly check the load and remove unnecessary items.

Poor Vehicle Maintenance

The condition of the car has a direct impact on gasoline consumption. Irregular maintenance can result in excessive fuel expenditure, sometimes by as much as 30%. Dirty air filters and tire pressure are crucial factors. A clogged air filter can increase fuel consumption by 10%, while under-inflated tires raise expenditure by 5%. Regular checks are essential to ensure optimal performance.

Inadequate Driving Style

Driving practices also play an important role. Driving at high speeds can increase gasoline consumption by 20%, especially when exceeding 90 km/h. Additionally, sudden starts and aggressive accelerations can raise gasoline consumption by up to 50%. Adopting a smoother driving style can not only save fuel but also extend engine life.

Road Conditions

The state of the roads you drive on impacts gasoline consumption. Driving on poorly maintained roads means your car has to work harder to maintain speed, which increases consumption. It is advisable to plan routes and opt for paved, well-maintained roads whenever possible.

Driving During Peak Hours

Another situation that can negatively affect gasoline consumption is heavy traffic. Traveling during peak hours or in heavily congested areas can increase gasoline consumption by 15%. This is because frequent stopping and accelerating are necessary, which raises fuel expenditure. Whenever possible, it’s better to look for alternative timings or smoother routes.

The Importance of Eco Services

Some workshops, like those at Norauto, offer Eco Services, where customers can perform a decarbonization of their vehicle’s engine. This process helps reduce emissions by up to 20% and fuel consumption by up to 10%. Undergoing these types of treatments helps maintain the engine in optimal conditions, thereby improving efficiency and reducing excessive gasoline expenditure.

Being aware of harmful habits that increase gasoline consumption is essential for any driver wishing to optimize their vehicle’s performance and save on fuel costs. The combination of good maintenance, efficient driving, and avoiding overloads allows for a more economical and eco-friendly journey.

It is crucial to recognize that certain driving habits can have a significant impact on the gasoline consumption of our vehicle. These habits not only affect our budget but also contribute to the increase of pollutant emissions, exacerbating climate change and air quality issues.

One of the most common habits is excessive speed. Driving at high speeds not only increases fuel consumption but also puts road safety at risk. Studies show that exceeding 110 km/h can elevate gasoline consumption by 20% compared to more moderate speeds. Additionally, the unnecessary weight we carry in our vehicles, such as luggage or items in the trunk, also affects fuel performance, increasing consumption by up to 2% for every additional kilogram.

Furthermore, the lack of adequate maintenance of the car plays a crucial role. Under-inflated tires, dirty air filters, and an engine in poor condition can lead to greater fuel expenditure, raising consumption by up to 30% in some cases. Checking tire pressure and conducting regular maintenance can be vital to optimizing vehicle performance.

Finally, daily habits such as driving during peak hours or in congested areas also unnecessarily increase gasoline consumption, contributing not only to household economics but also to environmental sustainability. Adopting a more efficient driving style and being aware of how our habits affect fuel consumption are vital steps towards more sustainable and responsible driving.