Why Is My Car Using More Fuel Than Usual This Summer?

Low tyre pressure can increase fuel use

Tyres have a big impact on fuel efficiency. If your tyre pressure is too low, more of the tyre touches the road, creating extra rolling resistance. This means your engine has to work harder to keep the car moving.

During summer, tyre pressure is especially important if you are travelling with passengers, luggage, roof boxes, bikes or holiday equipment. A heavier car needs the correct tyre pressure to handle safely and efficiently.

Before a long journey, check your tyre pressures against the manufacturer’s recommended settings. You should also inspect your tyres for uneven wear, cuts, cracks or low tread.

Air conditioning can affect fuel economy

Air conditioning makes summer driving much more comfortable, but it can increase fuel use because it places extra demand on the engine.

That does not mean you should avoid using it, especially in hot weather. However, if your air conditioning system is not working properly, it may be working harder than it should. If your air con is not blowing cold, smells unpleasant or takes a long time to cool the cabin, it may need an air con check, sanitiser, regas or leak test.

A healthy air conditioning system can help keep your car comfortable without unnecessary strain.

Dragging brakes could be costing you fuel

If your brakes are sticking or not fully releasing, your car may use more fuel because the engine is working against extra resistance.

This can sometimes happen without obvious warning, but signs may include a burning smell, one wheel feeling hotter than the others, vibration, reduced acceleration, brake noise or the car pulling slightly to one side.

Dragging brakes are not just bad for fuel economy. They can also affect safety, so it is worth booking a brake check if something does not feel right.

Summer luggage, roof boxes and extra weight

Summer journeys often mean carrying more than usual. Suitcases, camping gear, pushchairs, sports equipment, roof boxes and bike racks can all make your car heavier or less aerodynamic.

The heavier the vehicle, the harder the engine has to work. Roof boxes and roof bars can also increase drag, especially at motorway speeds.

If you are not using roof bars or a roof box, removing them can help improve efficiency. It is also worth clearing out anything from the boot that you do not need for everyday driving.

Short journeys and stop-start traffic

Short trips can use more fuel than many drivers expect. Engines are less efficient when cold, and if most journeys are short, the car may not have enough time to reach its most efficient operating temperature.

Summer traffic can also affect fuel economy. Stop-start driving, queues near holiday routes, city driving and frequent acceleration and braking all increase fuel use.

If your journeys have changed recently, this may explain part of the difference. However, a sudden or significant drop in fuel economy should still be checked.

When should you get your car checked?

If your car is using more fuel than usual and you cannot explain it through extra journeys, luggage, traffic or air conditioning use, it is worth booking a check.

You should also get your vehicle inspected if you notice warning lights, rough running, poor acceleration, brake noises, unusual smells, vibration, tyre wear or a sudden drop in miles per gallon.

At Startin Group, our technicians can check key areas that affect fuel economy, including tyres, brakes, filters, fluids, air conditioning and service items.

For drivers searching for car servicing near me, vehicle health checks, summer car checks, air conditioning checks, MOTs, tyre checks or car maintenance in Worcester, Redditch, Warwick and the surrounding areas, Startin Group is here to help. Our teams across the Midlands can support you with new and used cars, servicing, aftersales, repairs and expert advice to keep your vehicle running at its best.