HOW TO MAKE YOUR CITROEN CAR MORE FUEL EFFICIENT

With all signs pointing towards yet another petrol hike in January 2021, you will be pleased to know that there are some things that you can do to economize on your Citroen’s fuel consumption. As you know some vehicles are more fuel-efficient than others. This is due to their body weight and engine size. But interestingly, fuel consumption is not only about the car you drive but it is also about the way you drive – your individual driving style. Here are some measures you can take which will help you get more kilometers out of each tank of fuel and improve fuel economy, irrespective of which Citroen car you drive.

SERVICE AND MAINTENANCE

This is by far the most important aspect of having a fuel-efficient, safe, and healthy car. Vehicle owners underestimate the importance of regular services and vehicle checks. Do not wait for your car to break down or a part to fail before you send it for repair. Only a well-maintained car will be able to deliver fuel efficiency. Air filters, oil filters and engine oils need to be replaced and changed regularly and other Citroen parts need to be checked for faults and wear and tear. All parts of the car must be in good working order at all times in order for your car to run smoothly. Fuel economy decreases by as much as 10% when drivers have worn wheel bearings, faulty brakes and misaligned wheels, as well as damaged spark plugs and missed oil changes. All of these Citroen parts Pretoria and spares should be replaced regularly. Routine maintenance intervals are found in your owner’s manual but are usually suggested for every 3,000, 15,000, 30,000, 45,000, and 60,000 miles on a car.

REMOVE EXCESS WEIGHT AND DRAG

Try to travel as light as possible - declutter your car, empty your boot, remove the roof rack when you are not using it. Roof racks are extremely useful but they definitely increase the drag coefficient. The heavier the vehicle is, the more strain there is on the engine and more energy is required. It makes sense that a lighter car will consume less fuel. Another way to reduce drag is to close your windows when traveling at a high speed or on a highway. So in this instance, it would be preferable to put on your air conditioner. You can also save petrol by lowering your use of aircon as aircon uses fuel. Before starting your car open the windows a little to let all the hot air escape prior to putting the air conditioner on. At low speeds, you can open the windows rather.

ENHANCE YOUR DRIVING STYLE - SMOOTH AND STEADY

Driving in the highest gear with the smallest amount of throttle will use less fuel. Drive in the correct gear to ensure efficiency. Accelerate steadily and smoothly, pushing gently on the accelerator. Avoid sudden and unnecessary acceleration and braking and drive at a steady speed. At stop signs, slowly accelerate as you leave an intersection - avoid revving up your engine. You can use cruise control or maintain a constant speed to save fuel.

AVOID IDLING AND COASTING

When stuck in non-moving traffic, avoid leaving your engine on, called idling, for periods longer than thirty seconds. Idling wastes petrol and causes pollution so rather switch off and restart your engine when you have to move again. Some modern cars have an engine stop/start system which can also be used. Coasting is advised against for safety reasons as you have less control but in addition, the way modern cars are made, it won’t save you fuel anyway.

INCREASE TIRE PRESSURE EVERY WEEK AND BEFORE A LONG TRIP

Properly inflated tires will save you money and also prevent uneven and premature wear-and-tear. When your tires are properly inflated the engine does not have to work so hard and you consume less fuel. You will be able to find the recommended tire pressure in your owner’s manual or a sticker on the driver’s side door. Also, check your wheel alignment every 10,000 miles and rotate your tires.

USE HIGH-QUALITY FUEL AND MANUFACTURERS RECOMMENDED MOTOR OIL

Always fill up with your car’s recommended fuel and oil type at a reputable petrol station. Again you can refer to your owner’s manual to find what type they suggest - for example, unleaded or leaded fuel and which motor oils are recommended.