We often hear this question at our Brooksville, FL shop: “Is there a set of services you can do to increase my fuel mileage?” In this case, the question is from Troy, who drives a 2014 F-250 Lariat 4×4 with a 6.7-liter turbo diesel Powerstroke.
With the increase in diesel and fuel prices, it is understandable that people want to save as much fuel as possible. Fortunately, you can take some steps to increase fuel economy.
Our diesel mechanics in Brooksville, FL has several recommendations to increase fuel economy, whether you drive a Powerstroke or a gas vehicle.
Get Tire Maintenance
Most people prefer the convenience of all-season tires, especially in Brooksville, FL, where you don’t see ice and snow. Just because you have all-season tires doesn’t mean you can ignore them. In fact, poorly maintained tires can significantly affect your fuel economy.
If the tires are underinflated, more rubber touches the road, which affects the amount of power needed to move the truck. And when you start creating more resistance against the road, you decrease fuel economy.
Check the air in the tires frequently to ensure they have the proper air pressure. RDI Power in Brooksville, FL can check your tires and other systems to ensure you get the best fuel economy.
Check the Air Filter
The air filter also affects fuel economy. If it’s clogged, not as much air can get into the engine, and the engine requires a specific air-to-fuel ratio. A dirty air filter means that the vehicle must work harder to make the same power.
Clean or change the air filter in your truck—more frequently if you drive on a lot of gravel roads.
Inspect the Air Conditioner
Brooksville, FL is hot in the summer. You’ll be using your truck’s air conditioning every day. In addition to ensuring the air conditioning is in good condition to keep you cool, you’ll want to check the air conditioner’s compressor and the belt.
If the compressor is hard to turn, it uses more power, lowering fuel economy. This also goes for all engine accessories, including the alternator and power steering pump.
Change the Oil
Always change the oil!
While it doesn’t really affect fuel economy, it could if the oil gets too dirty. Dirty oil does not provide enough lubrication, which causes the engine to work harder and decreases fuel economy.
Check the Coolant
A hotter engine uses more fuel. People tend to forget about the coolant since it lasts around five years. Every year, have a Brooksville diesel mechanic check the coolant to ensure that it is still effective.
If the coolant is ineffective, it does not protect the engine from freezing temperatures and internal engine rust. It could also increase the boiling point of the water in the engine, increasing engine temperature.
The cooler the engine runs, the more efficient it is, which uses less diesel or fuel.
Contact RDI Power in Brooksville, FL
An experienced diesel mechanic at RDI Power can check these items to ensure that your truck is getting the best fuel economy possible for the age of the engine.
Contact us today to make an appointment for diesel maintenance. Call us at (352) 433-3800 or drop by at 1665 Donto Way, Brooksville, FL.
