Why Your Car's Fuel Efficiency Drops In Summer And How To Fix It
As temperatures rise, you might notice something alarming - your fuel efficiency taking a dip. If you’ve been making the same commute but refueling more often, you’re not overthinking things.
Summer heat can significantly impact your vehicle’s fuel economy, leading to higher fuel consumption and more frequent visits to the pump. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it?
This guide breaks down the science behind summer fuel inefficiency and provides practical tips to maximize mileage, including essential services like Car fuel system cleaning in Mumbai, Car fuel filter replacement in Thane, and Car fuel filter replacement in Mumbai.
The Science Behind Fuel Efficiency Drops in Summer
The combination of extreme heat, air conditioning, and fuel evaporation contributes to decreased fuel efficiency in warmer months. Here’s how each factor plays a role:
1. Increased Use of Air Conditioning
Running the AC full blast puts extra strain on your engine, making it work harder and burn more fuel.
Studies show that air conditioning can reduce fuel efficiency by up to 25%, depending on the vehicle and outside temperature.
2. Fuel Evaporation
High temperatures cause fuel to evaporate more quickly, especially when your car is parked in direct sunlight.
Modern vehicles are equipped with advanced evaporative emission control systems, but some fuel loss is inevitable.
3. Tire Pressure Fluctuations
Heat causes the air inside your tyres to expand, often leading to overinflation.
While underinflated tyres reduce fuel economy due to increased rolling resistance, overinflated tyres can reduce traction and stability, indirectly affecting efficiency.
4. Thicker Summer Fuel Blends
In some regions, fuel suppliers switch to a summer blend, which contains lower volatility compounds to reduce emissions.
While this is beneficial for the environment, it can slightly reduce fuel efficiency.
5. Engine Overheating
A hot engine runs less efficiently, consuming more fuel than usual. Ensuring your cooling system is in top condition through Car fuel system cleaning Mumbai can help prevent excessive fuel burn.
How to Improve Fuel Efficiency in Summer
Now that we understand the causes, let’s look at practical steps you can take to keep your mileage in check.
1. Get a Professional Fuel System Cleaning
Over time, dirt and deposits build up in your fuel system, reducing efficiency. Booking a Car fuel system cleaning Mumbai service ensures that fuel injectors, valves, and combustion chambers are clean, leading to better mileage.
2. Replace Your Fuel Filter
A clogged fuel filter can restrict fuel flow, forcing the engine to work harder. Regular Car fuel filter replacement in Thane or Car fuel filter replacement Mumbai can keep your fuel system running smoothly.
3. Park in the Shade
Reducing heat exposure minimizes fuel evaporation.
Parking in the shade or using a sunshade can prevent unnecessary fuel loss.
4. Use Your AC Smartly
Instead of blasting the AC immediately, roll down your windows for the first few minutes to let hot air escape.
Once the cabin temperature stabilizes, use the AC at a moderate setting.
5. Check and Maintain Tyre Pressure
Keeping your tires at the recommended pressure improves fuel efficiency. Check your tyre pressure regularly, especially during extreme weather changes.
6. AggreDrive Smoothlyssive driving, rapid acceleration, and sudden braking can reduce fuel economy. Maintaining steady speeds and anticipating stops can help conserve fuel.
7. Keep Up with Engine Maintenance
Regular servicing, including oil changes and cooling system checks, can prevent overheating and improve overall efficiency.
Conclusion
Summer doesn’t have to mean spending extra on fuel.
By understanding the factors that lead to fuel inefficiency and taking proactive steps like Car fuel system cleaning in Mumbai, Car fuel filter replacement in Thane, and Car fuel filter replacement Mumbai, you can maintain optimal fuel economy even in the hottest months. Keep your car in top shape and drive smarter to save more at the pump!
