How to Improve Gas Mileage: 10 Tips to Increase Toyota Fuel Efficiency

If you’re doing a lot of driving around Marion, fuel costs can add up quickly. Whether you are commuting on US-23 or navigating local streets in Delaware and Mansfield, you might be trying to figure out how to improve gas mileage yourself to save money at the pump. Our McDaniel Toyota service department is here to help! We’ve put together this helpful guide on how to increase fuel efficiency through smarter driving habits and proper maintenance for your Toyota car, truck, or SUV.

5 Driving Habits That Save Gas

There are simple adjustments any Bucyrus or Upper Sandusky driver can adopt immediately to improve gas mileage. By changing how you drive, you can lower your fuel consumption by up to 15-30% at highway speeds. Here are the most effective changes:

• Drive the Speed Limit: Gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 50 mph. Sticking to the limit on the highway is one of the easiest ways to save.
• Master the “Pulse and Glide”: Especially effective for the new Toyota Camry and other hybrids, this involves accelerating to your speed (pulse) and then easing off the pedal to let the electric motor take over (glide).
• Maintain a Consistent Speed: Using Dynamic Radar Cruise Control on the highway helps your engine maintain its most efficient RPM range.
• Accelerate Gradually: “Jackrabbit” starts waste fuel. Imagine there is an egg under your gas pedal that you don’t want to break—accelerate smoothly to keep your Eco light on.
• Limit Idling: Idling gets 0 miles per gallon. If you are waiting for more than a minute (such as at a long train crossing in Mount Gilead), turn the engine off.

If you’re ready for an even more efficient ride, explore our latest Toyota electrified lineup or browse our new vehicle specials.

How to Increase Fuel Efficiency With Regular Maintenance

Did you know that postponing service can reduce your MPG? A poorly tuned engine works harder, burning more gas. Here are the top service checks to maximize your Toyota’s economy:

• Check Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance. Keeping them at the proper PSI (found on your driver-side door jamb) is essential for a fuel-efficient RAV4.
• Change Air Filters: A clogged filter restricts airflow. A clean filter ensures your engine breathes easily, improving performance and mileage.
• Use the Right Oil: Using the wrong grade of motor oil can increase friction. Always use the Toyota-recommended synthetic oil specified in your manual.
• Wheel Alignment: If your vehicle is “fighting” against the road due to poor alignment, your fuel economy will suffer.
• Spark Plugs & Oxygen Sensors: Replacing fouled spark plugs or a faulty O2 sensor can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 40%.

Schedule a Fuel-Saving Service in Marion

Let us help keep your car running at its most efficient. Schedule a service appointment with McDaniel Toyota in Marion so we can get your vehicle up to date. You can check out our service specials for major repairs or simply stop in for a quick tune-up.

Read our customer testimonials to see why local drivers trust us, or contact us today for more tips. Join our community on Facebook for more fuel-saving advice!

Disclaimer: *EPA-estimated MPG ratings are for comparison purposes only. Your actual mileage will vary for many reasons, including your vehicle’s condition and how/where you drive. See fueleconomy.gov for more details.