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Expert Tips for Fuel-Efficient Holiday Travels - Mevert Automotive

As the holiday season gears up and you prepare for road trips to reunite with family and friends, it’s crucial to consider the efficiency of your journey. At Mevert Automotive and Tire Center, we understand that your vehicle is more than just a means to an end—it’s part of the holiday experience. I’m here to share some insider tips on how to enhance your vehicle’s fuel efficiency, ensuring that you can focus on the joy of the season rather than the gas gauge.

Plan Ahead for Peak Performance

Before you set off, planning is your best tool. A well-maintained vehicle is synonymous with fuel efficiency.

Holiday Road Trip Fuel Efficiency | Mevert Automotive Steeleville, IL. Image of male in background pumping gas at a station.

That’s why our comprehensive bumper-to-bumper inspection at Mevert Automotive is the first step to ensure your vehicle is holiday-ready. We check everything from your engine’s oil to the air in your tires, setting the stage for a smooth ride.

Tire Pressure: Rolling Towards Efficiency

Tires are the unsung heroes of fuel economy. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance, meaning your engine doesn’t have to work as hard. Check your tire pressure before you travel and adjust it according to the manufacturer’s specifications, which you can find in your owner’s manual or on the driver’s side door jamb.

Smooth Sailing: Driving Habits Matter

Your driving style can make a significant difference in fuel consumption. Hard accelerations and abrupt braking can increase fuel usage by up to 40%. Aim for smooth acceleration and gentle braking. Cruise control is your ally on the highways, helping maintain a constant speed and conserving fuel.

Lighten the Load: The Weight Factor

Every extra pound can impact your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Be judicious about what you pack. Ask yourself if you really need that extra suitcase or if there are items you can borrow or buy at your destination.

Stay Streamlined: Aerodynamics and Efficiency

Roof racks and open windows, especially at highway speeds, can decrease aerodynamics, causing your vehicle to burn more fuel. Keep windows closed when cruising and remove roof racks if they’re not in use to minimize air drag.

Regular Check-Ups: The Heartbeat of Your Car

A hidden secret to fuel efficiency lies within routine checks and maintenance. Utilizing our DVI and dealer-level diagnostics for GM, Ford, Chrysler, Honda, and Toyota vehicles, we can identify and rectify issues that may not be evident to you but can lead to increased fuel consumption.

Navigating with Wisdom: The Route You Choose

The shortest route isn’t always the most fuel-efficient. Consider traffic patterns and terrain. Constant stopping and starting, as well as driving uphill, can increase fuel use. Modern GPS systems can help you find the most efficient path to your holiday destination.

Idle Thoughts: The Cost of Stillness

Idling is an extravagance that your fuel tank can do without. If you know you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn off the engine. Modern vehicles are designed to handle this without undue wear and tear.

The Climate Control Conundrum

Your vehicle’s air conditioning can be a drain on fuel, but so can an open window at high speeds. Use your A/C sparingly, and recirculate the cool air inside your cabin whenever possible.

Regular Fuel Checks: Knowledge is Power

Last but not least, keep an eye on your fuel consumption during your trip. If you notice a sudden drop in efficiency, it could indicate a maintenance need.

At Mevert Automotive and Tire Center, located at 1014 West Broadway, Steeleville, IL, we’re not just about repairs—we’re about helping you enjoy the journey and the destination. Before you hit the road this holiday season, give us a call at (618) 965-9609 or visit us online at https://mevertauto.com to schedule a pre-trip inspection. Let’s make sure your holiday travel is both merry and fuel-efficient!