Fuel Efficiency Tips for OAK LAWN Drivers

Get Your Engine Tuned Up
Regular engine tune-ups keep your vehicle running efficiently and can save you time and money in the long run. From cleaning to routine replacement to repairs, an engine tune-up can make a huge difference in your fuel efficiency. The average tune-up improves fuel economy by 4 percent and that directly saves you money. See your owner’s manual for manufacturer recommendations on when to get tune-ups or talk to the specialists at Mike Haggerty Buick GMC.

Have Your Oil Changed
You can improve your gas mileage by 1%–2% by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. Clean oil helps reduce friction in the engine, reducing the amount of heat in your engine and helping it burn fuel more Making sure your vehicle is in the best shape possible is a great way to help save on fuel costs. Take a look at our quick list to ensure you're covering all of these bases.

Check Tires for Proper Inflation
Your tires are responsible for traction and handling. If your tires are worn, misaligned or underinflated, your fuel efficiency suffers. Properly inflated tires last longer, increase your fuel economy, and are safer on the road. Make sure you check your tire pressure once a month and keep them properly inflated to improve gas mileage. If your tires are showing wear, and need to be aligned or replaced, make an appointment with Mike Haggerty Buick GMC to get them checked out.

Get Your Wheels Aligned Properly & Check Suspension
Improper wheel and suspension alignment can really reduce fuel efficiency. Your tires will wear unevenly and bad suspension can cause drivetrain drag. When you're having your engine checked, ask our technicians to check your wheels and alignment as well.

Replacing That Clogged Air Filter
Air coming into your engine is full of dirt and dust. The engine air filter stops debris from entering the engine, but it becomes clogged over time and needs to be changed. While changing your air filter won't directly affect your gas mileage, it will increase the life of your engine and make it run more smoothly.

Get Your Mass Air Flow Sensor Checked
The mass airflow sensor measures airflow into the engine and tells the computer to regulate fuel injection. If the sensor becomes clogged, the readings become inaccurate. This can throw off your vehicle’s fuel economy, causing the engine to work harder than it really needs to. Get that sensor checked and cleaned up, and you can improve engine efficiency.

Check Your Oxygen Sensor
The oxygen sensor monitors exhaust flow and sends the information to your engine's computer, which then adjusts the fuel injection level as needed. If the sensor is faulty, the data it sends is incorrect. This causes the fuel injector to react and can cause fuel efficiency to plummet by as much as 40 percent. Have your oxygen sensor checked by our professionals and replaced if needed.

Replace Spark Plugs
The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence indicates that bad spark plugs can decrease fuel economy by up to 30%. If your mileage suddenly drops, make an appointment with us to have your spark plugs checked.

Watch For Battery Cable Corrosion
Corroded battery cables cause the alternator to work harder, using more gas. Have them checked and cleaned by a professional when you make your appointment with us.