What Could Be Causing Your Increased Fuel Consumption?
Fuel consumption has a big impact on the running costs of your vehicle, and it can also affect your plans for long trips in extreme cases. Over time, the mileage you get from a full tank of fuel can change, but people don't always notice unless it becomes particularly bad. It's worth monitoring, however, as it can tell you quite a bit about your vehicle's overall health.
Try to keep an eye on your fuel consumption so you can discuss it with your mechanic the next time you have your vehicle serviced. If your mileage is poor or seems to be reducing, here are some of the possible reasons behind it.
Tyre problems
There are numerous issues that can be caused by your tyres, but increased fuel consumption is one of the less obvious ones. It can result from either the wrong pressure or tyres that are too worn to be used, so make sure you get them checked and changed as needed.
When tyres aren't in the optimum state, the engine simply has to work harder to get the car moving because there isn't as much grip as there should be. This burns more fuel, and the difference can quickly add up.
Faulty spark plugs
Spark plugs are what causes combustion in your vehicle's engine. When they're worn or otherwise faulty, their ability to do their job is significantly impaired, which leads to fuel leaking from the car's exhaust in a liquid form instead of being burned.
Over time, this should cause a noticeable difference in your mileage, but it's a simple part for your mechanic to replace when you bring your vehicle in for auto servicing.
The fuel system
Your fuel system itself can develop a number of faults, many of which will cause you to get through fuel quicker than you should.
Fuel pumps can develop blockages, the filter can fail to do its job effectively and a build-up of dirt anywhere in the system can occur. If you notice a sudden, sharp increase in fuel consumption, it could be your fuel injector. Any issues with a vehicle's fuel system can cause significant damage, so don't wait around.
Your driving style
In some cases, it's simply the way you drive that leads to poor fuel efficiency. Aggressive driving, constant braking and accelerating and idling for long periods are all things that have an impact. It's always best to get your vehicle serviced regularly, however, just to eliminate other causes of the problem.
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