Mileage-Saving Maintenance: 4 Essential Tips

Want to Save at the Pump?

Fuel costs continue to rise, and for most Alberta drivers, every extra kilometre per litre counts. Changing your driving habits and lightening your vehicle’s load are surefire ways to increase efficiency.

A more efficient automobile means better fuel mileage, another way to achieve this is by completing some very basic maintenance. If you want to save more at the pump, follow Park Muffler’s tips below to keep your ride running in peak condition.

1. Change Your Filters Regularly

Air, fuel, oil, all the essential elements that feed an engine need to be cleaned before they’re introduced into the fine-tuned system.

Each one plays a vital role:

• Air Filter: Keeps dirt and debris from entering the engine. A clogged filter reduces airflow, forcing the engine to burn more fuel.
• Fuel Filter: Removes contaminants from gasoline or diesel to maintain smooth combustion.
• Oil Filter: Cleans the oil that lubricates the engine, helping reduce friction and wear.

In order to do so, they are pumped through filters that remove debris and impurities. These filters become clogged as they are used, restricting the operation and using more fuel. Replace air, fuel and oil filters as necessary to increase your vehicle’s overall mileage. Even a clean air filter alone can improve mileage by up to 10%.

2. Schedule Regular Tune-Ups

The easiest way to increase or maintain fuel efficiency is to schedule regular maintenance with a reliable mechanic. Keep a consistent schedule of oil changes, fluid checks and other routine inspections to ensure your vehicle isn’t being held back by a problem that could be simple to fix.

While maintenance and upkeep costs money, it is an investment in reliability and better mileage, which will save money in the long run!

3. Check Your Tire Pressure

Under-inflated tires are one of the most common and overlooked causes of poor fuel efficiency. Checking tire pressure is a popular do-it-yourself method of keeping your vehicle’s mileage up to standard. When tire pressure is too low, your car’s rolling resistance increases, forcing the engine to work harder and use more gas.

Invest in an affordable tire pressure gauge and check your tires at least once per month, especially before long drives or when temperatures drop.

Always inflate to the recommended PSI or kPa listed in your vehicle’s manual or driver-side door jamb. Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by 2–3% and extend tire lifespan.

4. Maintain Your Electrical System

Often overlooked as an accessory, the electrical system of your vehicle is essential to everyday operation and peak fuel efficiency. Older batteries, corroded cables and outdated programming can all reduce your mileage. It is prudent to have the electrical system checked semi-regularly and you may also consider upgrading the control chip; many programs are available to optimize an automobile’s fuel efficiency.

Additional Ways to Improve Mileage

If you’re ready to go beyond the basics, consider these extra tips:

• Reduce extra weight: Empty out heavy items from your trunk or bed.
• Avoid aggressive driving: Rapid starts and hard braking can reduce fuel economy by 10–20%.
• Use cruise control on highways: Maintains consistent speed and reduces fuel consumption.
• Keep your engine tuned: A faulty oxygen sensor or misfiring spark plug can cut mileage by up to 30%.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fuel Efficiency

Can old spark plugs affect my gas mileage?

Yes. Worn spark plugs cause incomplete combustion, which means your engine burns more fuel than necessary. Replacing spark plugs at the right interval can restore up to 30% of lost efficiency.

Should I use premium gas for better mileage?

Not necessarily. Use the fuel grade recommended by your manufacturer. Premium gas doesn’t provide a mileage benefit unless your vehicle specifically requires it.

How can cold weather affect my gas mileage?

Cold air increases aerodynamic drag, and idling to warm up the car burns extra fuel. Keep trips efficient, drive gently until your engine warms up, and maintain proper tire pressure in winter months.

Maintenance Is the Key to Mileage

Improving your fuel economy isn’t just about saving money—it’s about maximizing performance and extending your vehicle’s life.

From filter changes and tire care to tune-ups and electrical checks, consistent maintenance pays for itself in long-term reliability and fuel savings.

The tips above are a good introduction to mileage-saving maintenance, but it doesn’t end there. Contact or visit Park Muffler today for a comprehensive consultation and our professional recommendation!

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Updated: November 2025 | By Park Muffler