Brazilians are always concerned with the price of fuels. Did you know that some habits may help reducing consumption, resulting in more savings? Check out some driving and maintenance practices that are able to reduce fuel consumption by up to 35%, according to our experts.
1. Inflate your tires
Under inflated or poorly calibrated tires increase the friction between the wheel and the ground. Therefore, the effort required to start moving the car is greater than normal, consequently increasing fuel consumption. Ideally, the tires must be calibrated every 15 days, according to the pressure indicated in the manual. Tires can be responsible for 20% of the total consumption.
2. Switch gears correctly
Switch gears in time, considering the vehicle torque. The information is available in the manual, and it is important to emphasize that stretching when changing gears is a major villain in fuel consumption. In general, it is advisable to change gears at every 2,500 rotations and accelerate smoothly, since the acceleration may also reduce or increase consumption.
3. Correct spark plug and filter maintenance
The spark plugs are responsible for generating energy in the combustion chamber. If these components are in poor condition and combustion becomes irregular, the quantity of fuel injected is affected. Therefore, these components must be exchanged after the mileage recommended by the manufacturer. When damaged, the entire set shall be replaced by parts with the same specifications. Filters are also important for combustion, because they are responsible for the air used in the process. When the filters are dirty or clogged, the air quantity is reduced and the air/fuel mix becomes irregular. Therefore, it is important to pay attention to the replacement time recommended by the manufacturer (such information is available in the manual).
4. Reduce the vehicle weight
Heavier cars demand more from the engine, and therefore greater acceleration. As a result, fuel consumption increases. Check the maximum weight recommended by the manufacturer and avoid loading materials unnecessarily, such as removable bike and baggage racks. According to experts, 40 kg of excess weight may increase consumption by up to 2%.
5. Make the car as aerodynamic as possible
Aerodynamics allows the car to break the “air wall” and move forward. Therefore, the more aerodynamic the car, the lower the air resistance, acceleration issues and fuel consumption. According to this logic, keep the windows and sunroof closed, the wheels aligned, and avoid accessories.
6. Take care when refueling your vehicle
Refueling your vehicle in gas stations with questionable quality may cause problems. As tempting as the price may be, look for trusted gas stations with the ANP seal. Adulterated fuels are highly detrimental for the vehicle, because the kerosene mixed with the gasoline or water mixed with ethanol affect the electronic injection system reading and fuel average. Look for reliable gas stations, preferably where you know the gas pump operators and the manager. Another tip is to check where taxi drivers and fleet owners refuel their vehicles. In general, these gas stations are cheaper and more reliable.
7. Turn the car engine off
Depending on the size of the engine and use or air conditioning, a car can consume up to two liters of gasoline when turned on in neutral gear. Therefore, the recommendation is to turn the engine off if the vehicle shall remain stopped for more than 20 seconds, either in traffic jams or when waiting for someone to board, depending on safety conditions.
About Tuper
Tuper is the largest exhaust system manufacturer in Latin America and market leader. For 50 years, the company has been manufacturing exhausts, catalysts and tips for all national and international vehicle models and counts on installed capacity to produce three million parts per year for the replacement market alone. First in Brazil to manufacture an entire exhaust system (engine pipe, catalyst, intermediate muffle, rear muffle), the company serves the OEM and replacement markets simultaneously. Tuper exhausts and catalysts follow the standards and technical characteristics defined by the car manufacturers, which ensures total vehicle operational and adaptation excellence.
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