There can be multiple reasons to sudden increase in fuel consumption by your car. Factors ranging from maintenance, rash driving, and tire quality to other mechanical issues can contribute to such situations. In situations of significant malfunctions, the exhaust systems also start to show adverse effects. These added issues not only impact your cash flow but threaten the health of your car too. It is imperative to find the root of increased fuel consumption and address it effectively. This blog will discuss the possible reasons for enhancing fuel usage aiming to aid you with effective solutions.
Troubled Engine
This is one of the most common reasons that contribute to increased fuel consumption. A damaged engine would not have the potential to function at optimal range. However, the troubled engine doesn't need to be responsible for the commencement of such issues.
Many times, the factors such as spark plug, inefficient combustion, petrol engine, and oxygen sensors lead to inefficient functioning of the engine. Further, a faulty engine enhances the risk of causing fuel leaks that cause loss of fuel and disturbance in the combustion chamber. Other major factors include sensor malfunction that affects the Engine control unit, contributing to excess fuel usage.Low-Grade Fuel
With the increasing price range of fuel, many car owners opt for additives instead of standardised fuel. While those additives may serve the same purpose as fuel, but would jeopardise your money in the long run. The low-grade fuel or additives consists of impurities that get accumulated in various engine components and may indirectly affect the exhaust system too.
This deposition inhibits the effortless flow of fuel and eventually enhances fuel consumption. These kinds of alternatives give rise to carbon build-up that further affects the functioning of tender parts such as converters, oxygen sensors and other components of the engine. Lastly, these types of additives can hamper engine performance in the case of cold weather conditions.Depleted Tires
At certain times, the tire inflation pressure goes unnoticed and that's when the tire's experience enhances rolling resistance. Due to low pressure, the engine makes up for the force required to maintain the motion of the car. This extra energy provided by the engine is drawn from excessive fuel consumption.
Similarly, low-pressure tires cause friction that produces heat and uses ample energy. This heat affects the endurance of the tire and reduces its lifespan which further results in the replacement of tires.
In situations of emergency, there are enhanced chances of losing control over the grip of the vehicle, hence the driver is compelled to use the brake input to bring control over the acceleration which again leads to excess consumption of fuel.Reckless Driving
In extreme situations, it becomes difficult to cope with the traffic jam which further leads to reckless driving. Keeping the engine on during traffic leads to unnecessary consumption of fuel. Restarting the engine on the green signal saves fuel and does not impact the engine system. Further aggressive driving enhances the stress on the exhaust pipe in hoppers crossing that instigates threat for other exhaust components too.
The functioning of an air conditioner involves drawing energy from fuel. Hence, longer usage of air conditioners leads to excessive gas usage. To reduce the impact, you can keep the windows down in favourable situations.
Speeding and rash driving is not only hazardous but also impart major stress on the mechanical components of the car, which causes serious damage to certain components. Attentive usage of air conditioning and mindful driving would promote lower fuel consumption.
The Bottom Line
The above-discussed points will aid you with the causes of excess fuel consumption. Most of these nuisances can be avoided by bringing considerable changes to your driving habits. To detect excess fuel burn in the early stage, check the mileage by installing an advanced MID in your car. For better resolution and maintenance, consult with a technician to know about the prevailing issues with your car.
