R&S Automotive Limited Kumeu

Keep Your Engine Properly Tuned

Fixing a car that is noticeably out of tune or has failed an emissions test can improve its gas mileage by an average of 4 percent, though results vary based on the kind of repair and how well it is done.

Fixing a serious maintenance problem, such as a faulty oxygen sensor, can improve your mileage by as much as 40 percent.

Fuel Economy Benefit: 4%

Keep Tyres Properly Inflated

You can improve your gas mileage by up to 3.3 percent by keeping your tyres inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tyres can lower gas mileage by 0.3 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure of all four tyres.

Properly inflated tyres are safer and last longer.

The proper tyre pressure for your vehicle is usually found on a sticker in the driver's side door jamb or the glove box and in your owner's manual. Do not use the maximum pressure printed on the tyre's sidewall.
  
Fuel Economy Benefit: up to 3%

Use the Recommended Grade of Motor Oil

You can improve your gas mileage by 1-2 percent by using the manufacturer's recommended grade of motor oil. For example, using 10W-30 motor oil in an engine designed to use 5W-30 can lower your gas mileage by 1-2 percent. Using 5W-30 in an engine designed for 5W-20 can lower your gas mileage by 1-1.5 percent.

Also, look for motor oil that says "Energy Conserving" on the API performance symbol to be sure it contains friction-reducing additives.


Fuel Economy Benefit: 1-2%


Replacing a Clogged Air Filter on Modern Cars Improves Performance but Not KPL

A new study shows that replacing a clogged air filter on cars with fuel-injected, computer-controlled gasoline engines does not improve fuel economy but it can improve acceleration time by around 6 to 11 percent. This kind of engine is prevalent on most gasoline cars manufactured from the early 1980s onward.

Tests suggest that replacing a clogged air filter on an older car with a carbureted engine may improve fuel economy 2 to 6 percent under normal replacement conditions or up to 14 percent if the filter is so clogged that it significantly affects drivability.

The effect of a clogged air filter on diesel vehicles will be tested in the near future.

source: www.fueleconomy.gov