What’s the point of a car if it runs out of fuel before you even start driving? That’s why good mileage is so important.Whether it’s a new or old car, it should offer decent mileage. If not, you’ll end up spending a lot on fuel, having a worse driving experience, and harming the environment. The good news is, with a few simple changes and practical methods, you can get the most out of every liter. Here’s a detailed guide on how to increase car mileage.
What Is Car Mileage?
“Mileage” refers to how far your car can travel on a specific amount of fuel, or how many kilometers it can go per liter. A car’s mileage shows how efficiently it uses fuel, helping you assess its performance. When evaluating a car, its engine efficiency is reflected in the mileage it offers.
Average mileage can vary depending on the route and driving conditions. For instance, highway driving usually results in better mileage, while off-road driving may lead to different fuel efficiency results.
What Is Good Mileage On A Car?
There isn’t a single answer to how much mileage is ideal because many factors affect a car’s fuel efficiency. For example, a used car in good condition with around 80,000 kilometers on it can still be a great purchase. Similarly, a cheaper car with 16,100 kilometres or more can last many years if well-maintained. When assessing a car’s longevity and value, considering its mileage is essential.
Here are some luxury cars in India with the best mileage:
BMW XM: 61.9 kmpl, ₹2.98 Crore Mercedes-Benz AMG C 63: 50 kmpl, ₹1.95 Crore BMW M5: 49.75 kmpl, ₹1.99 Crore
Also, passenger SUVs in India like Tata Punch, Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara, and Kia Sonet offer impressive mileage.
How To Calculate Car Mileage Correctly?
Here’s how you can calculate your car’s mileage:
Step 1: Record the current odometer reading after filling up the petrol tank. Step 2: Take a long drive and refill the tank before it gets nearly empty. Step 3: Note how many liters of petrol are added during the refill. Step 4: Record the new odometer reading after refilling. Step 5: Use the formula:
Total Distance Covered ÷ Fuel Quantity Filled to calculate the mileage.
Possible Reasons For Low Mileage
The age of the car and how much it's used are inversely related to the mileage it provides. A lot also depends on the driver’s habits. Rash driving, sudden braking, quick acceleration, and frequent lane changes consume more fuel. However, some factors, such as driving in cold weather, rough terrains, and damaged roads, are beyond the driver’s control. These conditions lead to higher fuel consumption, gradually reducing the car’s mileage. If you're wondering how to increase your car's mileage, here are some simple tips and tricks:
Fuel-Efficient Driving Practices
Driving at an optimal speed of 55-95 km/h helps improve mileage. Speeds below 40 km/h strain the engine, and speeds above 80 km/h increase wind drag and tire friction. Avoid hard braking to conserve energy, reduce fuel waste, and improve mileage. Driving calmly and attentively keeps your mileage intact.
Maintain Tire Pressure
Proper tire pressure reduces rolling resistance, improving fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires increase friction and fuel consumption, while over-inflated tires can compromise stability and safety. Maintain optimal tire pressure for better fuel economy.
Use Quality Engine Oil and Lubricants
Using high-quality engine oil improves engine performance and mileage. Poor-quality oil can reduce fuel efficiency and damage the engine. Always follow your vehicle’s recommendations for oil to ensure smooth operation and better mileage.
Check Wheel Alignment
Misaligned wheels increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder, which impacts fuel efficiency. Regularly check your wheel alignment to ensure smooth tire rotation, improve mileage, and prevent premature tire wear.
Shift Gears at the Right Time
Whether driving a manual or automatic, shift gears smoothly and at the right time to reduce fuel consumption. In automatic vehicles, upshift to the highest gear as soon as possible to reduce engine load. Proper gear shifting helps improve performance and fuel efficiency.
Leave the Air-Con Turned Off
Air conditioning increases the load on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. Use natural ventilation or open windows when the weather is mild. Running the AC unnecessarily can strain your engine, reduce mileage, and increase fuel consumption.
Pick the Optimal Torque Range
Maintaining a steady speed is key to improving fuel economy. Avoid frequent acceleration and deceleration, which increase engine strain and fuel usage. Keeping a constant speed, especially on highways, helps improve fuel efficiency.
Reduce Extra Weight From the Car
Lighter cars are more fuel-efficient as they require less energy to move. Remove unnecessary items from your car, especially from the boot, to reduce weight. Every 45 kg added can reduce fuel efficiency by 2%, so regularly clear out unnecessary items to improve mileage.
Tools and Technology for Better Mileage
Using technology can help increase your car’s mileage. Here’s how:
Mileage Apps
Mileage apps are essential for tracking fuel economy. They allow you to log distance, fuel consumption, and refueling costs, helping you identify patterns in your driving, road conditions, and fuel choices. Some apps also let you add notes on different fuels or additives, providing insights to improve efficiency.
Eco-Driving Mode
Many modern cars come with eco-driving modes that optimize climate control, throttle response, and engine behavior to improve fuel efficiency. While sacrificing some power, these modes help provide more fuel-efficient performance. Additionally, onboard fuel efficiency analytics monitor real-time fuel economy and provide feedback on acceleration, braking, and driving behavior, encouraging drivers to adopt fuel-efficient habits through gamification.
How much fuel and money can you save by following these tips?
The condition of your car and your driving habits impact fuel savings. Turning off the air conditioner can save at least 4% on fuel. By improving your driving behavior and maintaining your car, you can boost mileage, save money, and drive more eco-friendly. Don’t forget the importance of car insurance for financial protection. These simple steps can improve performance, safety, and reduce long-term costs.
Check vehicle maintenance and inspection documents, as well as the miles in odometer.
If the overall value is lower than the real value, it is likely that the vehicle was subjected to mileage clocking.With CarDotCheck, get simple reports to show any clocking in your vehicle through a mileage anomaly check and use the relevant information to buy a used car without any defects.
