How to increase the MPG of any vehicle

With rising fuel costs, drivers should try to get the most from every gallon

The Mobile Auto Team has put together a list of 5 ways the average driver can increase their fuel efficiency.

Tip #1 - Address warning lights asap

If your car's check engine light is on, depending on the reason, it is likely that you are burning more fuel. We recommend performing a diagnostic scan as soon as possible to address the cause.

Tip #2 - Maintain proper air pressure in your tires

Simply put, low tires require your engine to burn more fuel. Under-inflated tires also wear uneven costing you even more money. For this reason, Mobile Automotive Technicians LLC offers FREE tire PSI check whenever we are on site for a repair or maintenance service. Don't know how much air your tires require? Most vehicles have a tag inside the driver door that lists the proper size and PSI requirement of your tire.

"Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by about 0.2% for every 1 psi drop in the average pressure of all tires. Properly inflated tires are safer and last longer"-www.fueleconomy.gov

Tip #3 - Use the recommended engine oil

Vehicle manufactures spend millions of dollars on research and development to meet federal emissions standards. You can improve your gas mileage by 1%–2% by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by 1%–2%. Using 5W-30 in an engine designed for 5W-20 can lower your gas mileage by 1%–1.5%.

Tip #4 - Replace your old spark plugs

As a controlled amount of fuel and air enter your combustion chamber, your spark plug ignites that mixture. To allow consistent combustion and maintain optimal MPG, good quality spark plugs are essential. Worn spark plugs greatly reduce fuel economy and increase driver costs. Replacing spark plugs is a maintenance service that should take place every 30,000-50,000 miles depending on the vehicle.

Tip #5 - Avoid aggressive driving

Rapid acceleration, constant braking, and speeding are major contributors to excessive fuel consumption. Limiting this type of driving will prevent unnecessary wasted fuel

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