Hey everyone,
man_raising_hand:I’ve got an older car (about 10+ years old), and I’ve noticed my gas mileage isn’t as good as it used to be. I want to get the best fuel efficiency possible without spending a ton of money.
What are some simple and cost-effective ways to improve MPG on an older vehicle? Would things like changing the air filter, using fuel additives, or upgrading spark plugs make a real difference?
Would love to hear any tips or personal experiences. Thanks in advance!
Hey man,
Yeah, older cars tend to lose efficiency over time, but there are definitely some easy and affordable ways to get better gas mileage:
Check Your Tire Pressure – Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making the engine work harder. Keep them properly inflated for better MPG.
Replace Air & Fuel Filters – A clogged air filter reduces airflow to the engine, and a dirty fuel filter can limit fuel delivery. Both can impact efficiency.
Use High-Quality Fuel & Additives – Adding a fuel system cleaner every few thousand miles can help remove carbon buildup and improve combustion.
Keep Up with Oil Changes – Using the right grade of motor oil and keeping it fresh reduces friction and helps the engine run smoothly.
Change Spark Plugs & Ignition Coils – Worn spark plugs can cause misfires and poor fuel combustion, hurting efficiency.
Avoid Aggressive Driving – Rapid acceleration and hard braking kill fuel economy. Smooth driving helps a lot.
Reduce Extra Weight – If you’re carrying unnecessary junk in the trunk, it’s making your car burn more fuel. Lighten the load when possible.
Fix Any Check Engine Light Issues – A bad O2 sensor or failing MAF sensor can mess up your fuel-air ratio, leading to worse MPG.
These should help squeeze a few extra miles out of each tank. Let us know if you see any improvements!