As gas prices continue to fluctuate and many households look for ways to cut down on expenses, finding ways to improve gas mileage has become a priority for drivers across the country. While buying a hybrid or electric vehicle might seem like the ultimate solution, you don’t need a brand-new car to increase fuel efficiency. With the right combination of maintenance, smart driving habits, and a few simple adjustments, you can significantly reduce how much fuel your car uses. At HiTech Automotive, we’ve helped countless customers save money at the pump just by helping them make the most of the vehicles they already own.
1. Keep Up with Routine Maintenance
The most important step to improve gas mileage is keeping your vehicle well-maintained. A poorly tuned engine or neglected system can waste fuel and reduce performance.
Schedule oil changes at the recommended intervals, replace spark plugs when needed, and ensure your air and fuel filters are clean. When an engine doesn’t get enough clean air or fuel, it has to work harder, which leads to increased fuel consumption. Regular maintenance helps all components run efficiently, maximizing mileage and minimizing unnecessary fuel use.
At HiTech Automotive, we offer complete tune-ups and diagnostic services that can detect issues affecting your gas mileage—even before they cause bigger problems.
2. Check Tire Pressure Frequently
Your tires play a bigger role in fuel economy than you might think. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to use more energy (and fuel) just to keep moving. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, properly inflated tires can improve gas mileage by up to 3%.
Make it a habit to check your tire pressure at least once a month. Be sure to inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which are usually printed on a label inside the driver’s door. Don’t forget to check your spare tire as well—proper inflation is crucial for safety and fuel efficiency.
3. Adjust Your Driving Habits
One of the fastest and most effective ways to improve gas mileage is by changing how you drive. Aggressive driving, including speeding, hard braking, and rapid acceleration, can waste a significant amount of fuel. Smooth, steady driving can lower fuel consumption and reduce wear and tear on your vehicle.
Try to avoid idling whenever possible. Idling gets you 0 miles per gallon and wastes gas. If you expect to be stopped for more than a minute or two, it’s usually better to shut off the engine. Also, use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed, which can boost fuel efficiency.
4. Reduce Excess Weight and Drag
Carrying unnecessary weight in your vehicle—especially heavy items in the trunk—can decrease your gas mileage. For every extra 100 pounds, your fuel efficiency can drop by around 1–2%, depending on your car’s size.
Additionally, rooftop cargo boxes and racks increase aerodynamic drag, especially at highway speeds. If you’re not using them, remove them. Reducing drag and weight helps your vehicle move more easily, which directly contributes to improved fuel economy.
5. Use the Correct Motor Oil
Not all motor oils are the same. Using the wrong oil can affect your engine’s performance and reduce your fuel economy. Always use the manufacturer’s recommended oil grade for your vehicle. Some oils are labeled as “energy conserving” and include friction-reducing additives that help improve gas mileage.
Our team at HiTech Automotive can help you choose the best motor oil for your vehicle, especially if you drive under harsh conditions or have a high-mileage engine.
6. Plan Smarter Routes
Improving your fuel efficiency isn’t only about what happens under the hood—it’s also about how often and how far you drive. Combining multiple errands into one trip and avoiding heavy traffic can help reduce the total miles you travel.
Whenever possible, try to avoid rush hour and use GPS apps to find faster, less congested routes. Fewer starts and stops and more continuous driving allow your engine to operate more efficiently, improving gas mileage over time.
7. Don’t Use Premium Fuel Unless Required
Unless your owner’s manual specifically recommends premium fuel, there’s usually no benefit to using it. Most modern engines are built to run efficiently on regular unleaded gas. Using premium fuel in a vehicle that doesn’t require it won’t improve gas mileage, horsepower, or performance—it’ll just cost more at the pump.
If you’re unsure what kind of fuel your car needs, our technicians at HiTech Automotive are always happy to review your manufacturer’s recommendations.
8. Keep Your Fuel System Clean
Over time, carbon deposits and gunk can build up inside your fuel injectors and intake system. This buildup can reduce your engine’s efficiency and lower your gas mileage. Having your fuel system professionally cleaned can help restore performance and improve fuel economy.
HiTech Automotive offers affordable and effective fuel system cleaning services that safely remove deposits, improve throttle response, and boost overall efficiency.
9. Consider Eco-Friendly Driving Technology
If your vehicle comes with an “Eco Mode,” use it. Many newer vehicles include systems designed to optimize engine and transmission behavior for better fuel economy. Eco Mode typically reduces throttle sensitivity and adjusts shifting patterns to save gas.
Other tools, like trip computers and fuel economy monitors, can give real-time feedback on your driving habits and help you track improvements. These tools encourage smarter driving that helps you improve gas mileage consistently.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a hybrid, EV, or new car to start saving money on fuel. With smart driving techniques and consistent vehicle care, you can improve gas mileage and extend the life of your current vehicle. Whether it’s a routine inspection, tire service, or a complete tune-up, HiTech Automotive is here to help keep your car running at its best. To find out the gas mileage of your car, click here to use this calculator.
Stop by today or schedule an appointment with one of our expert technicians by clicking here. We’ll help you make the most out of every mile—no new car required.
