In cold weather conditions, your car has to work much harder. It takes much longer for your engine to reach fuel-efficient temperature, especially if you are making several short trips. Heated seats, window defrosters, and heater fans use additional power as well, adding to winter just not being a fuel-efficient season. Your battery is working harder too -- your battery’s performance decreases in cold weather, so it is especially hard for your alternator keep your battery charged.
With all this being said, there are several tips and tricks you can use to maximize your car’s fuel economy in the winter:
- If you can, park your car in a warmer place, so you can increase the initial temperature of your cabin and engine.
- Combine trips so you are driving less often with a cold engine.
- Don’t let your car idle more than 30 seconds to warm it up. Your engine actually warms up faster while you drive.
- Minimize your use of seat warmers or defrosters.
- Make sure to have your tire pressure checked regularly.
- If you have accessories on your car, such as roof racks, remove them, so you can decrease any wind resistance.
- If you drive a hybrid or electric wheel, preheat your cabin while charging to extend your vehicle’s range.
- If you drive a hybrid or electric wheel, use the seat warmers instead of the cabin heater to save energy and extended range.
If you are interested in learning more about fuel economy and driving in the winter, check out these blogs: https://aplusjapaneseautorepair.com/blog/is-premium-gas-really-necessary-for-your-vehicle-; https://aplusjapaneseautorepair.com/blog/how-to-safely-remove-ice-off-my-windshield.
Preventative maintenance can also maximize your vehicle’s fuel economy -- even in winter. Schedule an appointment today for preventative maintenance at A+ Japanese Auto Repair. We are conveniently located at 780 Industrial Road, San Carlos, CA 94070.