Park in shaded areas and use your air conditioning wisely to improve gas mileage in hot weather. Most drivers can boost fuel economy by up to 25% by following these simple steps tailored for summer driving.
Hot weather forces your car to use extra fuel, especially when running the A/C. According to a study cited by the EPA, running your AC when the weather is hot can reduce your vehicle's conventional fuel economy by 25%. You need smart habits to fight this loss. Here are the top ways to save gas during summer heat.
1. Master Your Air Conditioning Use
Your A/C is the biggest fuel drain in summer. Follow this rule for peak efficiency:
- At speeds under 40 mph: Roll down your windows instead of using A/C. Open windows create drag only at high speeds, so use them at low speeds to let hot air escape first.
- At speeds over 40 mph: Switch to A/C. Open windows create too much drag at highway speeds, which wastes gas.
- Park in shade: Shaded parking keeps your car cooler, so the A/C works less when you start driving.
2. Keep Tires Properly Inflated
Heat changes tire pressure, which impacts fuel economy. Check tire pressure weekly during heat waves. Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by up to 3%. Too low pressure makes your engine work harder to move the car.
3. Remove Extra Weight and Drag
Heavy cars burn more gas. Clear out unnecessary items like sports gear, books, or backpacks from your trunk and seats. Also, remove roof racks, cargo boxes, or bike racks when not in use. These add-ons increase wind resistance and lower fuel efficiency.
4. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Idling
Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed. Modern engines do not need to warm up by idling. Turn off your engine if you sit for more than 10 seconds. Idling with the A/C on before moving is a major fuel loser.
5. Maintain Your Vehicle
A clean engine runs better. Replace dirty air filters to improve fuel economy and acceleration. Use the recommended motor oil grade, or consider synthetic oil for better efficiency in extreme temperatures. Regular tune-ups keep your engine running efficiently.
Quick Refuel Tip
Fill up your tank during cooler parts of the day, like early morning or evening. This reduces fuel evaporation and helps you get more energy per gallon.
By combining these habits, most vehicles can significantly cut fuel costs in summer. Sidekick tracks your driving data to show how small changes save money on gas every month. Start with tire pressure and shade parking today for instant results.