With rising fuel costs and growing environmental awareness, Chevy owners are increasingly looking for ways to get more miles out of every gallon. Fortunately, there are several practical steps you can take to improve fuel efficiency in your Chevy, whether you drive a Silverado, Malibu, Equinox, or another model. Regular maintenance, smart driving habits, and small adjustments to how you care for your vehicle can all contribute to better gas mileage — saving you money and reducing your carbon footprint.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you improve fuel efficiency in your Chevy.
1. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated
Underinflated tires create extra rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your Chevy’s tire pressure regularly — at least once a month — and ensure all tires are inflated to the recommended PSI listed in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb. Maintaining proper tire pressure is one of the simplest ways to improve fuel efficiency.
2. Use the Recommended Motor Oil
Using the wrong type of motor oil can increase engine friction and reduce your fuel economy. Always use the grade of oil specified in your Chevy’s owner’s manual. Synthetic oils that meet GM’s Dexos standards can also help your engine run more smoothly, contributing to better fuel efficiency.
3. Follow Regular Maintenance Schedules
Sticking to your Chevy’s recommended maintenance schedule ensures that critical components — like air filters, spark plugs, and fuel injectors — remain clean and in optimal condition. A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to your engine, while worn spark plugs can lead to incomplete combustion — both of which hurt fuel efficiency.
4. Lighten Your Load
Carrying excess weight reduces fuel economy, particularly in smaller Chevy vehicles like the Malibu or Trax. Remove unnecessary items from your trunk or cargo area and avoid leaving roof racks or carriers installed when not in use. Lighter vehicles require less energy to move, which helps improve fuel efficiency.
5. Drive Smoothly
Aggressive driving — rapid acceleration, hard braking, and speeding — can significantly reduce your Chevy’s fuel economy. Instead, accelerate gradually, maintain steady speeds, and anticipate stops to avoid sudden braking. Using cruise control on highways can also help optimize fuel use by maintaining consistent speeds.
6. Limit Idling
Leaving your engine running while parked wastes fuel and adds unnecessary wear to your engine. If you’re waiting for someone or parked for more than a minute, turn off the engine. Many newer Chevy models come equipped with auto start-stop technology, which automatically turns the engine off at red lights to help improve fuel efficiency.
7. Combine Short Trips
Multiple short trips with a cold engine consume more fuel than one longer, combined trip. Plan errands to avoid unnecessary back-and-forth driving. When the engine stays warm, it operates more efficiently, helping to conserve fuel.
8. Use Air Conditioning Wisely
Air conditioning can strain your engine, particularly at lower speeds. On mild days, open the windows to cool your Chevy instead of using the A/C. At highway speeds, however, using the A/C is more efficient than driving with the windows down, which increases aerodynamic drag.
9. Monitor Your Fuel Economy
Most modern Chevy vehicles have a built-in fuel economy monitor that displays your average MPG. Paying attention to this readout can help you spot changes in fuel efficiency early, allowing you to adjust your driving habits or schedule a service appointment if necessary.
10. Stay Up to Date on Software Updates
Some Chevy models receive software updates that optimize engine and transmission performance. Ensuring your vehicle’s software is up to date can improve shift timing and fuel management, contributing to better fuel economy.
Visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph to Improve Your Fuel Efficiency
If you want to improve fuel efficiency and get the most out of every gallon, visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph for professional maintenance and expert advice. Our certified technicians can inspect your tires, air filters, spark plugs, and fuel system to ensure everything is working efficiently. Whether you need routine service or advanced diagnostics, we’re here to help you maximize your Chevy’s fuel economy.
While you’re here, explore our wide selection of new and pre-owned Chevy vehicles. From fuel-efficient sedans to versatile SUVs and capable trucks, we have a Chevy to fit your needs. Visit Sarchione Chevy of Randolph today for expert service and to discover your next vehicle.