With fuel prices always changing, it’s normal to look for quick ways to improve gas mileage. The problem is: there’s a lot of advice online that sounds smart—but doesn’t actually help (or can even be unsafe).
Here’s a simple, real-world guide to fuel-saving tips that work, plus the most common myths to ignore.
Fuel-Saving Reality: What Actually Works
1) Keep Your Tire Pressure Correct
Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which means your engine works harder. Check pressures regularly—especially when temperatures swing—and inflate to the door-jamb spec (not the tire sidewall).
2) Drive Smoothly (It’s the #1 Habit)
Rapid acceleration and hard braking burn the most fuel. The best strategy is simple:
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accelerate gently
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keep steady speed
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anticipate stops early
3) Fix “Small” Problems Before They Become Big
Maintenance issues can quietly hurt fuel economy:
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dragging brakes (sticking calipers/slides)
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alignment issues
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worn spark plugs
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failing oxygen sensors
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vacuum/EVAP leaks
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dirty throttle body / intake deposits (on some engines)
If mileage suddenly drops, there’s often a reason worth diagnosing.
4) Reduce Extra Weight and Drag
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Remove heavy items you don’t need in the vehicle.
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Take off roof racks/cargo boxes when not in use (wind drag adds up quickly at highway speeds).
5) Use A/C Smartly
A/C uses energy, but so does driving with windows down at higher speeds (drag). The simple rule:
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city/low speed: windows can be fine
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highway: A/C is often the more efficient choice for comfort + airflow
6) Plan Trips to Avoid Stop-and-Go
Short trips and cold starts are hard on fuel economy. Combine errands and choose routes with fewer stops when possible.
7) Use the Right Oil and Stay on Service Schedule
Using the correct oil spec and keeping up with routine maintenance helps the engine run efficiently and reduces unnecessary wear.
Fuel-Saving Myths: What to Ignore (or Avoid)
Myth #1: “Premium Fuel Gives Better Mileage in Any Car”
Premium only helps if your vehicle requires it (or specifically recommends it). If your car is designed for regular fuel, premium usually won’t improve mileage.
Myth #2: “Let It Warm Up for 10–15 Minutes”
Modern engines don’t need long warm-ups. Idling wastes fuel. In most cases, it’s better to drive gently for the first few minutes instead.
Myth #3: “Fuel Additives Always Boost MPG”
Some additives can help in specific situations, but most won’t create noticeable mileage gains on a healthy vehicle. If you’re chasing MPG, tires, driving habits, and fixing real issues matter more.
Myth #4: “Drafting Behind Trucks Saves Gas”
This is dangerous and not worth it. Following too closely increases collision risk and can’t be recommended.
Myth #5: “Gadgets and Magnets Improve Fuel Economy”
If it sounds like a miracle, it usually is. Real fuel savings come from basics: tires, alignment, maintenance, and driving style.
Quick Fuel-Saving Checklist (Copy/Paste)
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✅ Tire pressure set to door sticker spec
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✅ Alignment checked if pulling/uneven wear
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✅ No brake dragging / no vibrations
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✅ Smooth acceleration + steady speeds
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✅ Remove roof rack/box when not needed
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✅ Combine trips / avoid heavy stop-and-go
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✅ Fix check engine lights promptly
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✅ Stay current on oil, filters, spark plugs (as applicable)
When to Get It Checked
Book an inspection if you notice:
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sudden drop in fuel economy
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rough idle or hesitation
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check engine light
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pulling, vibration, or uneven tire wear
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burning fuel smell or poor performance
Often, a quick diagnosis saves more than guessing.
Need Help Improving Fuel Economy?
At Heritage AutoPro & Tire, we can check the common causes of poor mileage—tire wear, alignment, brake drag, engine performance issues, and maintenance gaps—so you get real results instead of gimmicks.
Stop by or give us a call.
Heritage Dr SE. Location:
8304 Fairmount Dr, SE
Calgary, AB, T2J 7B4
403-258-3030
At HERITAGE AUTOPRO we install quality NAPA replacement parts.
