Several questions come to mind when a car’s fuel consumption suddenly becomes poor. For example, what is the source of the problem? Is it the driving style, the engine oil, or a vehicle component causing the poor fuel consumption?
To find out the exact reasons, we have identified the vehicle component candidates that are largely responsible for impacting the vehicle’s mileage.
Important Car Parts for Fuel Economy
After spending a considerable amount on fuel every day, if you are now looking for ways to save that money, try replacing worn parts. Otherwise, follow some essential car part maintenance tips to increase mileage.
1. Oxygen Sensor
All cars manufactured after 1995 are equipped with this component mounted on the exhaust system. By calculating the flow of exhaust gases before and after the catalytic converter, the component sends the information to the onboard computer (adjusting fuel injection based on the data).
However, if this vehicle component that affects fuel consumption is not working properly, transmitting inaccurate data will directly affect fuel consumption.
2. Mass Air Flow Sensor
The most important component contributing to energy efficiency is the mass air flow meter. By measuring the amount of fuel entering the engine, the mass air flow sensor transmits the calculated data to the vehicle’s computer.
Here, if a faulty MAF disrupts the imbalance calculation, it generally affects fuel injection, leading to poor fuel consumption. Therefore, analyzing computer codes is what can help you determine the condition of the MAF.
Tip: the trouble code pointing to the MAF is a sign of a faulty component.
3. Air Filter
The very name “air filter” describes the component’s function. And if air continuously passes through dirty filters, it results in reduced fuel consumption (especially in older cars).
Therefore, replacing air filters on time is an easy, quick, and wise thing to do.
4. Spark Plug
New or clean spark plugs ignite the air/fuel mixture in the engine’s combustion chamber. However, in case of high fuel consumption, oil overflowing from these plugs can cause misfires.
In addition to that, when the car vibrates and struggles to accelerate, it clearly indicates insufficient fuel consumption. There are two reasons for this terrible fuel economy: either a worn ignition coil or a dead spark plug. And, usually, it’s the faulty ignition coil, resulting from engine heat.
5. Tires
A car’s energy efficiency and handling are directly affected by underinflated, misaligned, or worn tires. Responsible for maintaining friction between the vehicle and the road surface, their timely inflation, pressure, and alignment checks are essential!
Finally, in addition to maintaining these vehicle components, one can increase fuel economy even by following some driving tips like gradual acceleration and light braking.