Overall, cold weather affects your vehicle’s fuel economy, as it takes longer for your engine to reach a fuel-efficient temperature. Warming up your vehicle for your engine to reach that ideal temperature also lowers your fuel economy. However, there are a few tips and tricks you could do to combat the effects of the cold weather on your fuel economy:
- Try to park your car in the warmest place, so you can increase the initial temperature of both your engine and cabin.
- Only let your vehicle idle for 30 seconds and then gently drive away.
- If you can, combine your trips. It will be easier on both your wallet and engine.
- If you have accessories that could increase wind resistance, such as roof racks, remove them.
- Seat warmers and defrosters definitely keep you warm but try to minimize your use of them, if possible.
- Check your tire pressure, not only for better fuel economy but for safety too.
- Any extra weight in your vehicle? Do you have an old trunk in the back seat? Take out those unnecessarily heavy items. Extra weight results in your vehicle using the extra power.
In winter, your fuel economy is reduced by 34%, but with these tricks, we hope you can minimize that number. Additionally, a vehicle that is not performing in tip-top shape, can affect how your car drives. At Orinda Motors, we can inspect your vehicle, searching for any signs of trouble. Schedule an appointment, or stop by Orinda Motors / Orinda Auto Rentals / Orinda Classic Car Center at 61 & 63 Orinda Way.