Sources of Increased Fuel Consumption in a Volkswagen

Volkswagens are known for being reliable family vehicles that are a pleasure to drive. However, with gas prices on the rise, that driving pleasure can become a pain in the wallet when your Volkswagen is consuming more gas than it should. By understanding the various factors that can impact fuel consumption, motorists can take steps to minimize their costs and help reduce their environmental impact.

What causes high fuel consumption?

There are a number of reasons that can contribute to increased fuel consumption in a car.

Tires

One of the most common reasons is incorrect tire pressure. Tires that are inflated to too high or too low of a pressure create more rolling resistance, which requires the engine to work harder and use more fuel. In addition, incorrect tire pressure can affect the handling and stability of the vehicle, making it more difficult to control and increasing the chance of an accident. For these reasons, it is important to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate to the recommended level. This will help to improve fuel economy and keep you safe on the road.

Struggling Engine

Another potential cause is an inefficient engine. Incorrect engine tuning can lead to increased fuel consumption for a number of reasons. First, an engine that is not tuned properly will tend to run lean, meaning that there is more air than fuel in the mixture. This can cause the engine to run hotter than normal, which can lead to increased fuel consumption. Second, an engine that is not tuned properly will also tend to have a lower compression ratio, which means that it will not be able to convert as much of the fuel into usable energy.

As a result, the engine will have to work harder to generate the same amount of power, leading to increased fuel consumption. Finally, an engine that is not tuned properly will also tend to produce more emissions, which can negatively impact both air quality and gas mileage.

Driving Habits

Finally, driving habits can also play a role in how much fuel a car consumes. For example, aggressive driving (e.g., speeding, rapid acceleration) can lead to significantly higher fuel consumption than more relaxed driving. Sudden starts and stops can cause your car to use more fuel. It’s also important to avoid idling whenever possible. Many people think that it’s more efficient to let their car idle than to turn it off and restart it, but this isn’t the case. Idling actually uses more gas than restarting your engine, so it’s best to turn off your car if you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute or two.

Maintenance Can Help Improve Gas Mileage

Regular maintenance is essential for keeping your Volkswagen running smoothly and efficiently. Regular oil changes help to keep the engine clean and well-lubricated, while new spark plugs and air filters can improve gas mileage by up to 10%. Furthermore, regularly checking and inflating tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%.

By simply following the recommended maintenance schedule for a Volkswagen, owners can significantly improve the gas mileage of their car. In addition, regular maintenance can also help to prevent more serious and expensive problems down the road. By taking care of their Volkswagen, owners can enjoy many years of trouble-free driving.

Trust Franklin Automotive With Your Volkswagen

At Franklin Automotive, we understand that your car is a crucial part of your life. Whether you use it for commuting, errands, or pleasure, you rely on it to get you where you need to go. That’s why we’re dedicated to providing the best possible service to our customers. We understand the importance of a proper diagnosis, and our team is committed to ensuring that your vehicle receives the best repairs possible at prices that your budget can handle.

We serve auto owners in Birmingham and the surrounding areas, including Homewood, Hoover, Mountain Brook, Pelham, Trussville, and Vestavia. Call or visit our shop today to schedule an appointment with one of our mechanics. We’ll make sure your car is running smoothly so you can get back on the road and focus on the things in life that matter most to you.