Improving Winter Fuel Economy

Your vehicle’s engine struggles to maintain ideal fuel economy during the cold months. Cold temperatures are one of a number of factors that affect gas mileage. Automotive engines work best at above 70 degrees Fahrenheit. At 20 degrees Fahrenheit, the engine can be up to 25 percent less efficient. And if you idle your vehicle to warm it up, remember that, while idling, your car is running at zero miles per gallon.

Getting the Most Out of Winter Driving

There are a few things to consider when attempting to maximize your driving during the hazardous winter months. As you’ll see below, there are myriad factors working against you when it’s cold outside and the roads are treacherous. Speed, engine temperature, tire inflation and electrical load are all factors to keep in mind before starting your vehicle in order to make the most out of winter travel.

What’s Hurting Your Fuel Economy

Aerodynamics-- Keeping your vehicle aerodynamic is an important way to maintain top fuel efficiency.  Snow adds additional weight and additional resistance to airflow, causing drag on your vehicle. Be sure to clear you car, truck or SUV of snow and ice before driving.

Traveling at higher speeds also increases the force of drag. The Department of Energy reported that for every 5 miles per hour driven above 60 MPH adds roughly an additional 24 cents per gallon of gas. And cold air is denser than warm air, which adds additional drag -- and miles per gallon cost -- during winter travel.   

Engine Temperature-- When it is cold, your vehicle has to work harder to get to ideal temperature. As it is warming up, your fuel efficiency takes a hit. When you’re able, consider parking in a garage or other indoor spaces to reduce the time it takes for your engine to heat up. When it is cold outside, try to avoid shorter trips or group numerous small trips together, so you can enjoy a positive impact on your fuel efficiency.

Winter Driving Best Practices

In order to maximize fuel efficiency, here are a few more things to consider before starting your trip:

Tire Pressure-- Because cold air is denser than warm air, winter temperatures reduce the air pressure inside your tire. During icy conditions, tire pressure is especially important. Properly inflated tires make your vehicle better able to grip the road in slippery conditions. They will also keep your engine running at maximum fuel efficiency by increasing the miles-per-gallon ratio of your engine. 

Electrical Consumption-- You might not realize how the energy required to run electronics in the cabin of your vehicle affects your gas mileage. Electrical consumption of components like cell phone chargers, heated seats and video displays increase the electrical load, which in turn causes the engine to burn more fuel to compensate. Consider charging your cell phone at home before hitting the road in the winter months to reduce costs.

Avoid Idling-- Each minute your engine is running without being in motion reduces your miles-per-gallon efficiency. By reducing the time between starting your engine and hitting the road, you will help reduce fuel costs in the winter months.