Check out Why Your Car is Suffering with Bad Mileage

A car's gas mileage can be affected by many things- from how you drive to the kind of car you have and the outside factors like weather and traffic. If you're noticing your car's gas mileage is gradually decreasing, you can check a few things to see what the problem might be. Take your car to an auto repair shop in Cincinnati for a check-up to see what might be the problem. They can help you get to the root of the problem and find a solution.

Many things can lead to bad mileage, but here are some of the most common causes.

Why is My Car Suffering From Bad Mileage?

Skipping Routine Services

It might be a complicated procedure, but adhering to the manufacturer's recommended service schedule for your car is essential. Those services, such as oil changes, are designed to preserve your car's engine and help it perform at its peak. You'll notice a drop in engine performance if you skip those services or delay them longer than necessary. That loss in performance will show up as lower gas mileage.

Suppose you're unsure what services your car needs, consult your owner's manual or ask a qualified technician at auto repair in Cincinnati. At the very least, ensure you get an oil change every 5,000 miles (8,000 kilometers).

Tire and Wheel Issues

Tires and wheels have more to do with gas mileage than you think. When your car wheels are misaligned, the engine works harder to get it moving and keep it moving because it is fighting friction. Improper tire inflation causes the same issue. The more complex the vehicle is to roll, the harder the engine works to accomplish it. That extra work translates into poorer fuel economy.

It's easy to check your tire pressure with a digital tire gauge, which you can pick up at most auto parts stores. However, it would be best to have your wheel alignment checked by an Ohio auto repair specialist at least once a year.

Problems with Fuel or Air

A car's engine requires both air and fuel to function. If there's something wrong with either one of those things, it can affect the car's mileage. For example, a clogged air filter will limit airflow to the engine, making it work harder (and use more gas) to get the same amount of power. Similarly, water in the fuel line will prevent the fuel from igniting correctly, resulting in decreased performance.

A qualified technician can check for these issues during a routine service. Then, they'll be able to clean or replace the air filter and drain any water out of the fuel line.

Issues with the Spark Plugs

Spark plugs are responsible for igniting the air/fuel mixture in the engine so that it can combust. Unfortunately, spark plugs can become fouled with oil, carbon deposits, or other debris over time. When that happens, they can't do their job correctly, and the engine will suffer.

Bad spark plugs will usually cause the engine to misfire, which you'll be able to feel like a loss of power. You might also notice that the car is running rougher than usual. If you're experiencing either of these issues, it's time to replace your spark plugs.

A technician at an auto repair shop can do that for you, and they'll also be able to inspect the ignition system for any other issues.

In Conclusion

Poor gas mileage can cause different issues, from something as simple as improper tire inflation to more severe problems like engine misfires. If you're concerned about your car's gas mileage, it is best to take it to a qualified technician at an auto repair in Cincinnati for a thorough inspection. They'll be able to identify any issues and recommend the best course of action to take.