Fuel prices rise again: Five mistakes that increase fuel consumption

Rising petrol and diesel prices are once again increasing the financial burden on Indian motorists, making fuel efficiency more important than ever. While fuel rates are beyond the customer’s control, many common driving and maintenance habits reduce mileage and increase running costs. Many modern cars offer improved efficiency, but poor driving practices and deferred maintenance often result in unnecessary fuel consumption. Experts say correcting some common mistakes can help significantly improve mileage over time.The biggest reason behind high fuel consumption is aggressive driving. Sudden acceleration, sharp braking and frequent lane changes force the engine to work harder and consume more fuel. While many drivers believe that accelerated speeds save time in city traffic, the impact on travel times is usually limited. Maintaining a steady speed, using smooth throttle inputs and avoiding unnecessary braking can help improve efficiency in both city and highway conditions. Incorrect tire pressure is another major factor affecting fuel economy. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to use more fuel. Apart from reducing mileage, low tire pressure also affects tire life, handling and braking performance. Vehicle manufacturers recommend checking tire pressure regularly, especially before long drives and during extreme weather conditions. Oversized wheels and wide tires can further reduce efficiency due to additional weight and resistance.The extra weight inside the vehicle also contributes to higher fuel consumption. Many owners keep unnecessary items, tools and accessories in the boot for long periods of time. The extra weight puts more strain on the engine, especially in hatchbacks and compact SUVs. Roof carriers and roof-mounted luggage boxes also affect aerodynamics and increase fuel use at highway speeds. Removing unnecessary items can improve both efficiency and vehicle performance.Skipping scheduled maintenance is another common mistake that affects mileage. Components like engine oil, air filter, spark plugs and fuel filter play a vital role in maintaining engine efficiency. Dirty air filters, worn spark plugs and old engine oil increase engine load and fuel consumption. Modern BS6-compliant engines are more vulnerable to poor maintenance and low-quality fuel compared to older vehicles. Wheel alignment problems can further increase rolling resistance and tire wear, which can lead to higher fuel use.Excessive idling and poor traffic habits continue to cause fuel wastage, especially in congested cities like Bengaluru, Delhi and Mumbai. Leaving the engine running during long waits outside schools, shops or traffic signals consumes fuel without covering any distance. Shutting off the engine during long stops can help reduce unnecessary fuel consumption. Using the air-conditioner continuously in idle mode increases operating costs, especially during summer.You can also use navigation apps to avoid heavy traffic and maintain better driving patterns. Choosing less crowded routes and avoiding peak-hour travel when possible can help reduce fuel wastage. With fuel prices remaining unpredictable, improving mileage has become essential for many Indian car owners. Simple measures like easy driving, proper tire maintenance, avoiding excess load, regular servicing and reducing unnecessary idling can help reduce fuel expenses significantly over time.