Does Winter Gas Lower MPG & What to Do About It

As the temperature drops and winter takes hold, it's normal for fuel efficiency to decrease. But here's a silver lining that many motorists look forward to – lower fuel prices.

Yes, you heard it right! Fuel costs tend to dip during the chillier months of the year. This seasonal drop is typically a result of decreased demand as people travel less, coupled with the switch to winter-blend gasoline, which is cheaper to produce.

But here's the kicker: you don't have to wait for the price drop at the gas station to start saving on fuel this winter. With the help of Christian Brothers Automotive, you'll discover some practical ways to increase your vehicle's fuel efficiency, ensuring you can save on your fuel costs, winter or not.

Why Do Cars Use More Fuel During the Winter?

Understanding the why behind the dip in fuel efficiency during winter can help us find ways to combat it. Here are some factors that contribute to increased fuel consumption during the colder months:

• Decreased Tire Pressure: Cold temperatures can cause the tire pressure to drop, which results in increased rolling resistance and, consequently, more fuel consumption.

• Increased Idle Time: Drivers tend to leave their cars idling to heat up the engine or defrost the windows, which consumes more fuel.

• Winter-Grade Fuel: Winter gasoline blends have slightly lower energy content, which can lead to higher fuel consumption. This is because winter blends can contain more butane which is cheaper than many of the other ingredients in gasoline and allows it to burn more easily. This comes at the cost of being less energy efficient.

• Increased Use of Accessories: The usage of heaters, defrosters, and lights are often increased during winter, which puts an additional load on the engine and increases fuel consumption.

Of course, that's not all – but understanding these few key factors can give you a good idea of what to focus on when trying to save on fuel during the winter months.

How to Get Better Gas Mileage in the Winter

Improving your gas mileage in winter doesn't have to be a daunting task. It's all about understanding the different factors that come into play and taking proactive steps to minimize their impact. Here are some surefire ways to keep your car running efficiently this winter, enabling you to spend less on fuel and more on things that bring you joy:

• Limit Cold Starts: Combine errands to reduce the number of times you start your car from a cold state.

• Avoid Excessive Idling: If you're waiting for someone or parked for a short period, consider turning off the engine instead of letting it idle.

• Maintain Proper Tire Pressure: Cold weather can cause tire pressure to drop, increasing rolling resistance and reducing fuel efficiency. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended level.

• Use Winter-Grade Motor Oil: Switching to a lower-viscosity motor oil during winter can help your engine run more efficiently in colder temperatures. An example is 5W30. The “W” stands for winter and is then followed by the oil's cold weather rating. The lower the number, the better the oil is for colder temperatures.

• Drive Smoothly: Avoid aggressive acceleration and braking. Maintain a steady speed and anticipate traffic conditions to minimize unnecessary fuel consumption.

• Use Cruise Control: Cruise control helps maintain a consistent speed, reducing fuel consumption on long highway drives.

• Limit Use of In-Car Features: Features like heated seats, defrosters, and climate control can increase fuel consumption. Use them sparingly to conserve fuel.

• Don't Drive on Empty Tank: Keep your gas tank at least half full to avoid condensation and moisture buildup in the fuel lines, which can freeze and cause problems in cold temperatures.

Above all, be sure to prioritize preparing your vehicle for winter by scheduling crucial maintenance services like oil changes, brake system inspections, and checks of the alternator, starter, and battery. These essential checks will ensure optimal performance and safety throughout the colder months.

One Last Tip Before Your Winter Road & Round Trips

If you will be driving at all, however, the car care experts at Christian Brothers recommend getting a seasonal auto checkup first. With more traveling, your chances of running into things such as snowy conditions increase, making this particularly important.

We can help you get your vehicle ready for the colder months ahead and provide personalized tips to improve your gas mileage. Schedule an appointment with your local Christian BRothers Automotive today and ensure a safe, efficient winter driving experience! Let us handle the car care so you can focus on enjoying all the joys of the season without worrying about your fuel costs.

Find your nearest Christian Brothers Automotive location and schedule your appointment today!