Reducing your Cost per Kilometer from you Car
Last week we took a look at how much it costs to drive your car per kilometer, so this week we are going to talk about how to reduce that amount so that driving your car is more efficient. Since there are a lot of factors to consider that contribute to your cars costs per kilometer, lets list them out and discuss each separately.
Engine Oil - we all know what lubrication can do, so imagine an engine that is moving metal on metal thousands of times per second. Hot right? So using good quality oil and changing it every 5000km is key. And don’t skimp out on the filter either.
Air Filter - imagine running with a painters mask over your face, it’d get pretty hard to breathe wouldn’t it. Well your car has gotta do that for a couple of years using the same mask. Now that’s bad. So be sure to give it a new quality air filter every couple of years, or 100,000km
Tires - you wouldn’t run a marathon in work boots would you? Tires have ratings on them, and a speed rated tire may not last as long as a standard tire. A snow or mud tire also run out sooner. The key with tires is getting something appropriate. If you are driving it on the track every day, then get speed rated. The rule of thumb is harder rubber, longer lasting and better fuel economy. However, less grip. So it’s a pros vs cons argument for you to decide. We suggest you select low-rolling-resistance compound tire. On a side note, adding a few extra psi at the air pump will make your car a little more efficient regardless. (Look for the suggested PSI on your door and add 3-5 psi more. This will improve efficiency at the cost of traction - perform at your own risk)
Waxing - yup, wax that car and it pays for itself, well maybe, but at least it will look nice. You may not notice a huge difference, but if you are driving it on the highway it could be significant. The air will travel over your car with much less resistance and minimize any drag
A/C - turn it off, and not just the fan to off, but the actual A/C button - turn it off. This will be a huge difference. Use the fan and you will notice you don’t really need A/C that often to begin with.
Close the Windows - close up the windows, especially if you are on the highway. This will also minimize drag on your car.
Take off that Spoiler - So you got yourself a wing eh? Well your fuel economy will suffer as a result. I bet it makes a great track car, but on the roads it won’t do you much. It will increase the downforce on your car, simulating extra weight and therefore using more fuel.
Shed those Pounds - If you can make your car lighter, do it. Take out any extra things that don’t belong or that subwoofer that no longer works. Whatever is lurking in that trunk, get it out. Just keep your spare tire and tools of course. Oh, and if you can lose a few pounds yourself too, then do it, your wallet will thank you too.
Check your Sensors - If you have a check engine light on, come and let us help you resolve that immediately. A bad sensor could be costing your more in the long run.
Driving Habits - this is the hardest one to do but could be the best for your wallet and your life. Become a better driver. Take a class if you need to. In the meantime, watch traffic and traffic lights. Predict when they will change and/or stop. Paying close attention will reduce how often you brake and accelerate, thus improving your fuel efficiency and making you a much more aware driver.
Ok, so we think that’s enough for now, we have some cars to get working on. Maybe your car will be in soon? Remember we are London’s best alternative to the dealer for any import makes such as BMW, Volvo, Audi, Mercedes, VW, Acura, Lexus, Toyota and Honda. And of course we service domestics as well. Not only that, but we can you parts for your car if you are DIY’er. Just come on in to Top Gear and see for yourself! As always drive safe!