How to Figure Out Gas Mileage

Member

By bar10dr98
User-Submitted Article

Article Rating: (3 Ratings)

Gas mileage is how many miles your car goes on one gallon of gas. Tracking your gas mileage can pinpoint performance issues in your car, and can help you set budgets for traveling by knowing how much you will need to set aside for gas money. Many things can affect the gas mileage your car gets, such as proper inflation of tires, but keeping track of your gas mileage on a regular basis can let you know when something needs a closer look. Here's how you can figure out your gas mileage.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Fill up your gas tank completely. You will need to start figuring your gas mileage with a full tank of gas to get the proper measurements. Reset your trip mileage odometer at this time, or write down the mileage on your regular odometer.
Step 2

Drive until you have about a half tank of gas or less, then refill your gas tank. Note the exact amount of miles you have driven, and the exact amount of gallons of gas you have used in that time.
Step 3

To figure your gas mileage, divide the number of miles you have driven by the amount of gas it took to refill your gas tank. This number is your gas mileage. Do this on a regular basis, such as once a month or so, to track performance issues in your car. A slight difference from time to time is okay, a big dip in gas mileage can indicate a mechanical problem.

Tips & Warnings

Gas mileage can be improved by following manufacturers recommendations regarding proper tire inflation and maintenance of your car. Regular tune ups and oil changes are very important to this!