How to Convert Vehicles to be More Fuel Efficient

No matter what the price of gas is, everyone could benefit by learning how to convert vehicles to be more fuel efficient. There are a few simple things that you can do to save at the pump; as well as more time consuming and more expensive projects that will pay off in the long run. Though nothing will fill your wallet back up like magic, there are steps you can take to have to fill up on gasoline less.

Things You'll Need

• High quality air/fuel filters
• Cold air intake system
• Custom exhaust
• O2 sensor(s)/other repair parts as needed
• Cruise control

Instructions

1. Perform regular maintenance on your car. This may seem like a no-brainer but it's worth mentioning because it's easy to put things off if you have a hectic lifestyle. Simple things such as tune ups and oil changes on your car or truck will keep the motor running in tip-top shape. A more smooth running motor means that it uses less gas. The harder it has to work to run your car truck, the more gasoline it will go through.

2. Buy higher quality air and fuel filters. When performing regular maintenance, invest in a better fuel and/or air filter for your car or truck. Even the smallest difference adds up in the end when figuring out how to convert vehicles to be more fuel efficient.

3. Switch to a cold air intake system. Standard intake systems pull air from the front of the radiator in your motor where it is hot. A cold air intake system pulls air from outside of the engine, where it is cooler. Since cold air is denser, you need less gas to create the proper gas to air ratio it takes to keep your engine running smoothly. An added bonus is that it also gives you more power.

4. Add some custom exhaust. The same principle as the cold air intake system applies here. The more efficiently the exhaust performs, the better. The powerful sound is an added bonus. Now you have a valid reason to install those chrome pipes you've always wanted.

5. Diagnose and fix problems immediately when learning how to convert vehicles to be more fuel efficient. If your check engine light comes on or you vehicle starts dogging out when you are taking off, it may be time to replace your O2 sensor(s). These are what ultimately controls your gas to air ratio, being sort of the alarm for your car or trucks computer. If they are bad, the spitting and the sputtering could be the result of your O2 sensor causing your motor to push more gasoline in, making it run rich. Small repairs such as this can save a lot at the pump in the long run.

6. Install and use cruise control. If you haven't got it already, a cruise control system in your car or truck can play a part in how to convert vehicles to be more fuel efficient. Human error can cause a lot of working of the gas pedal when driving. Letting the vehicle do it for you means less spurts of gasoline. This is especially convenient if you have a longer commute everyday or take road trips for business or pleasure. Not to mention less leg and foot fatigue when you get to your destination.

7. Use your air conditioning less. Simple things really do make a difference and this is especially true when talking about the air conditioner that is in your car or truck. Unlike the other electronics in your dash or the heater which can actually pull some of the warm air off of your engine, the AC unit causes your motor to work harder. This in turns makes it use more gasoline. So roll down your windows the next time you're on the road and enjoy some fresh air while knowing that you are mastering how to convert vehicles to be more fuel efficient.

Tips & Warnings

• As stated before, these steps will not improve your fuel efficiency by leaps and bounds individually; but when utilizing a few of them together, you are sure to notice a difference at the pump and in your pocketbook.

• If your check engine light comes on, always have the codes read by a certified mechanic before you start throwing parts at the vehicle. Some parts are expensive, and some vehicles have more than one oxygen sensor.