Poor MPG in the Winter? Not meeting manufacturer ratings? Problem solved.

Now that winter has finally rolled around, it's time to have the MPG talk.
Every year, the Internet gets flooded with "my car's mpg has gone down!" "why am I getting less fuel economy?" and the occasional "wtf? my car's mpg isn't what the manufacturer says!" Well, before we all contact our lawyers, let's look at what could actually be happening. For those of you who know little about cars, this may be new to you. For the rest, you may have heard some of these ideas. But either way, it is good to refresh.

Here are some possible reasons why your car isn't getting what it used to, or why it doesn't meet manufacturer ratings:

1. It could just be the cold weather. Simple as that. The car has to work harder to heat itself up to operating temperature because it is so cold. Also, many people get in their car and crank the heat, os now the engine has to warm itself and the passenger cabin. This runs through fuel like you wouldn't believe. Let your car warm up before driving or turning the heat on.

2. Cold weather also deflates tires. Make sure your tires are at the correct PSI (pressure per square inch). Don't know what the correct PSI is? Look in the driver door jam for a stick that will tell you the correct inflation pressure. If you are unable to find this, fill the tires to the universal 32, and check the owner's manual for the correct number when you have time.

3. If your car has a turbo, and you have a heavy right foot, your MPG will be far below manufacturer ratings. Turbo's force more air into the combustion chamber, and you will need more fuel to mix with the air. If you drive eco consciously or you are not a speed racer, your turbo engine should be fine. (I'm designating a whole new blog post on turbo's verus naturally aspirated, subscribe for more).

4. Hybrids. We love to hate them. They do usually get good fuel economy though, and in the end the world needs them. However, this type of vehicle has the least consistent fuel economy, basically ever. If you own a hybrid, your mileage will never be the same. Some get way more than expected, others much less. If you own a Ford Hybrid (later models years: C-Max Hybrid, Ford Fusion Hybrid) that was rated at 47/47 MPG city/highway, your car achieves less. Ford has since updated its ratings.

5. If you own a Ford hybrid vehicle or Hyundai, these late model cars have infamously not been able to achieve their manufacturer specs. While both companies have righted the issue, Hyundai owners (possibly Ford?) that have overrated cars can get a cash settlement from a class-action lawsuit, if I remember correctly.

Drive safely,
allcarseveryday

Extra weight could also be reducing your MPG.

Make sure you have no junk in your trunk!

(Photo via allcarseveryday)