With living costs always rising, many drivers are looking for ways to save fuel and keep their cars running efficiently. But sometimes, it’s not how you drive, it’s small parts inside your engine that could be quietly wasting your money. Here are two common culprits that can dramatically raise fuel consumption if you skip regular maintenance.
Spark plugs are the tiny parts responsible for igniting the fuel air mixture inside each cylinder. When they get old or worn out, they produce a weak spark, causing incomplete fuel combustion. This means your engine may burn extra fuel just to make up for the loss in power. Common signs include a rough idle, trouble starting your car in the morning, or a noticeable drop in acceleration. Most experts recommend changing spark plugs every 40,000 to 100,000 kilometers depending on the type. Following this simple rule could improve your fuel economy by up to 15 percent, making it one of the smartest low cost fixes you can do for your car.
The oxygen sensor acts like a watchdog for your engine, measuring the amount of oxygen in the exhaust and telling the car’s computer if the fuel mixture is right. When this sensor goes bad, it often sends false readings, making your car dump extra fuel into the engine. This can trigger the check engine light and may boost fuel consumption by up to 40 percent in severe cases. If you notice your dashboard warning light or a sudden jump in fuel use, get the oxygen sensor checked and replaced if needed. Keeping this tiny part in shape is crucial for protecting your wallet and the environment.
Started my career in Automotive Journalism in 2015. Even though I'm a pharmacist, hanging around cars all the time has created a passion for the automotive industry since day 1.
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