Are You Getting Lower than Advertised Fuel Efficiency? Here's Why

 One of the most important features you'll likely look for in your next vehicle is the fuel efficiency numbers. Those two to three numbers can mean a lot for your ride and your wallet over the long-run of your ownership. Fuel economy not only saves you, the driver/owner, money but it also reduces the amount of harmful emissions eeking into the atmosphere as you drive. Ponying up large sums at the pump is terrible and polluting the environment is the worst so we shop for rides that sip rather than guzzle fuel. 

After you've selected your ideal ride and have started seeing less and less of the gas station, you're likely on cloud 9. Until you start noticing that you're returning to the pump more often than before. Why is that? Why isn't your ride getting the advertised fuel efficiency? Well, Toyota of Clermont is here to help you figure it out!

Why Your Gas is Burning Up (For You Babyyyy)

Jonas Brothers reference aside, your vehicle could be getting lower than advertised fuel efficiency numbers for several reasons. Here's a breakdown:

• Dirty Air Filter: There are several filter in your ride and they will inevitably get dirty over time. It means their job is being done. But, leaving them unreplaced and unchecked can lead to a plethora of problems. One of them being a loss in fuel economy. Clean air is necessary for combustion and a blockage or leaking of pollutants into the engine can make it harder for fuel to burn. This means degraded fuel economy. Replace your air filter and that might do the trick!
• Underinflated Tires: Having unsupportive shoes is like being in a one-sided relationship, depressing. But, we're not marriage counselors. We at Toyota of Clermont can tell you that having under-inflated tires will cause a dramatic loss in fuel efficiency. This is because under-inflation leads to a loss in control and your vehicle will have to work harder to go anywhere. 
• Old Spark Plugs: Spark plugs play a key role in getting your Clermont Toyota vehicle started. When they become dated and worn they can cause your vehicle to lag and exhaust extra fuel on startups. 
• Poor Fueling System: Your fueling system consists of the pump, injector, and a few other components. An issue with any one of these parts can cause a rapid decrease in fuel efficiency, but don't try and fix this one yourself. Bring it to one of our auto service technicians at Toyota of Clermont and they'll take a look. 
• Punch it, Mr Sulu: Going warpspeed isn't possible so you should probably stop acting like it is when you're driving. Not only is flooring the pedal unsafe, it's also a recipe for poor fuel efficiency. Gradually press the accelerator and brake as your drive and you should see an improvement in your fuel economy. 

Still have some burning questions on how to improve your fuel economy? Visit Toyota of Clermont at 16851 State Road 50 for all your auto service needs today!