Maximize Fuel Efficiency in 5 Steps

Maximize Fuel Efficiency in 5 Steps

Embark on each journey without frequent stops at gas stations. Take these steps to unleash the full potential of your Cadillac’s fuel tank.

1. Streamline your vehicle

   One of the best ways to increase your fuel efficiency is by keeping your car organized. Anything you keep inside your vehicle is extra weight that can reduce the amount of time a tank of gas will last. Remove unnecessary items to help keep your vehicle as clear as possible.
   Equipment on the outside of your vehicle can also add excess weight. When they aren’t in use, remove add-ons that increase wind resistance and decrease fuel efficiency, such as:

   • Roof racks
   • Cargo boxes
   • Bike racks

   Rear-mounted cargo boxes are a better option if traveling with additional items. Fueleconomy.gov research shows that at highway speeds, roof-mounted cargo boxes can reduce fuel economy by 8% to 25%, while their rear-mounted counterparts typically have a 1% to 5% impact.

2. Take advantage of the latest in vehicle technology

   Many new Cadillacs feature the stop-start system, which seamlessly conserves fuel by cutting the engine when the vehicle stops and restarting it when you lift your foot off the brake.
   
   Idling uses more fuel than restarting your car and gives off up to twice the amount of emissions than when your car is in motion. The next time you go for a drive, consider letting this system maximize your drive time per tank and reduce your environmental impact.

3. Maintain a steady speed

   Fuel efficiency peaks at speeds between 45-50 mph, after which energy consumption increases. It’s best to drive the speed limit and use cruise control or Super Cruise when possible. Rapid acceleration and hard braking wastes extra fuel, lowering your gas mileage between 10% and 40%.¹

4. Optimize your tire pressure

   For a smoother ride and unmatched performance, your tires need to be inflated to the correct PSI. Underinflated tires not only increase fuel consumption by up to 3% but also accelerate tread wear and heighten the risk of a blowout. Protect your investment and your peace of mind by keeping your tires properly inflated, especially in the colder months.

5. Perform regular maintenance

   Meticulous maintenance is a must if you want unparalleled dependability. When you follow the maintenance schedule recommended for your vehicle, it runs more efficiently while also reducing your environmental footprint. Schedule regular tuneups with the Certified Service experts at your dedicated Cadillac dealership for best-in-class care.

Adapt to seasonal shifts

Winter and summer temperatures can also impact your fuel efficiency. In cold weather, there will be an unavoidable increase in aerodynamic drag on the vehicle, since colder air is denser than warmer air. Some ways to minimize the loss of fuel efficiency in the winter is to check your tire pressure regularly and don’t idle for too long to warm up the vehicle as the engine warms up faster when the vehicle is being driven.

While cooling off your vehicle in hot weather, roll the windows down when driving at lower speeds to allow the hot air to escape, and then use the air conditioning when you’re on the highway. You can also help your vehicle reach a comfortable cabin temperature faster by parking in the shade.

Now that you know five steps to improve your gas mileage, and some bonus seasonal considerations, put them to work and reduce how frequently you fill up. Want to take fuel out of the equation altogether? Here are four advantages of choosing electric for your next vehicle.

¹Fueleconomy.gov

By Lincoln Edgemon, Cadillac Financial

Lincoln learned how to drive in a GMC Sierra and has been a fan of large vehicles ever since. She's committed to clarity in communication that helps others on their journey toward financial literacy.