Many are concerned about this question: My car's fuel consumption is much higher than what is written in the passport. Have I been deceived?
In fact, not everyone understands where the writings in the passport from the manufacturer come from. There is such a thing as testing a car. It is carried out in order to check the quality of the fitting of the car, the calculation of various characteristics, etc. It is at the time of testing that the indicators are recorded.
Basically, testing is carried out under reference conditions. This means that there is no aggressive driving, excess cargo in cars and other things that basically every driver has.
Let's look at the main causes of high fuel consumption.
1. Aggressive driving
This is perhaps the most basic point in fuel consumption. Many people, mostly young people, like to drive. Standing at a traffic light, seeing a cool car, they want to attach it at the start. But in fact, at the moment of acceleration and at the moment of sharp braking, the greatest fuel consumption occurs. Okay, if you accelerate and maintain the gained speed, this is still justified. But in the city it often happens that after acceleration you get into the next traffic light and you have to slow down.
2. Air conditioning in the car and open windows
In general, both air conditioning and open windows consume your fuel quite a lot. However, there is a misconception that driving with the windows open is more efficient in terms of fuel than with air conditioning. This is of course true, but only at speeds of less than 40 km / h. If you drive above 50 km / h, then you will have more consumption with the windows open. But it should be understood that when the air conditioner is on, the power of the car drops.
3. Tire pressure and wheel alignment
Under-inflated tires and generally "crooked" wheels increase fuel consumption. If your car's wheels are at a slight angle, it will slow it down a bit. Because the engine will spend more energy to maintain speed. And also not exposed wheels spoil the rubber very much. In fact, if you put new tires on uneven wheels, then there is a chance that it will not last a season. Try to follow this moment and avoid such gross mistakes.
4. Extra cargo on the car
If you are a fan of loading your car under the roof, then you can forget about fuel consumption close to passport data. Since every 100 kg of excess weight increases fuel consumption by 10%. And if we talk about a loaded roof rack, then fuel consumption increases up to 40% (if the trunk is empty, then up to 5%). In general, fuel consumption depends on the design of the trunk, on its size, shape.
5. Installing additional equipment on your car (spoilers)
Any additional equipment that you hang on your car violates the aerodynamic characteristics of the car presented at the factory. Thus, you significantly increase fuel consumption.
6. Using dipped/high beam headlights
When the dipped beam is on, the vehicle's fuel consumption increases by approximately 5%. If you go on high beam, then about 10%. Of course, we are not talking about driving without headlights. And this indicator does not depend much on you, but you should know this information. And, of course, be normal people and do not blind oncoming cars with high beams. Because of this, you can make an emergency, and at high speed this can lead to dire consequences.
There are other reasons why your car will "eat up" fuel, but they must be addressed with mandatory maintenance. Among these reasons:
-
Late ignition
-
gaps in spark plugs
-
Low coolant temperature
-
Wear of the cylinder-piston group
-
Wear of the crank mechanism
-
Clutch wear
-
Deterioration of the gas distribution mechanism
-
Untimely replacement of the air filter
-
Thermostat failure
-
Dirty fuel injectors.
These were the main reasons for the high fuel consumption.
Let's deduce a few rules, following which you can control your spending and not spend extra money.
1. Try not to overload your car. To do this, it is enough to know the maximum load capacity and not exceed its value. If you have a trunk that you rarely use, then it is better to remove it. And install only when necessary.
2. At high speed, do not open the windows to the full, leave only a small crack for ventilation, thus you will save some more money.
3. Before you get behind the wheel, calm down and tune in to a calm ride. Try not to start quickly, smoothly shifting gears. Do not forget that it is best to brake with the engine. This way you will extend the life of your pads.
4. Use fluids recommended by the manufacturer.
5. Get your maintenance done on time and keep an eye on the condition of your car.
These were the highlights of fuel consumption. If you listen to the advice, you can reduce the cost.
We hope the information was useful to you.