Do You Want to Become a Certified Mechanic? Find out How to Save Fuel While Driving

Every mechanic knows that fuel efficiency depends on two things: the car and the driver. The automotive industry is becoming increasingly focused on reducing CO2 emissions. Hybrid and electric cars are becoming more popular, and the Canadian government introduced new taxes on fuel prices in April 2019.

There are a number of ways drivers can reduce their fuel emissions without having to go fully electric. This can help them save money and reduce their carbon footprint. Read on to discover three tips you can offer to drivers looking to use less fuel!

Encourage Drivers to Drive Slow Once You Become a Certified Mechanic

Driving fast and furious is a surefire way to waste fuel. In fact, drivers should aim to drive steadily with minimal braking and accelerating. Research has shown that slowing down from 80 mph (129 km/h) to 70 mph (113 km/h) could save up to 25% in fuel. Eco-conscious drivers should stop revving the engine, as this also uses more fuel.

Drivers of Manual Vehicles Can Switch to Higher Gears Sooner

When it comes to fuel efficiency, drivers of manual cars will be happy to know that manuals are said to be more fuel-efficient than automatics. However, that’s not to say that there aren’t a few things manual drivers can do to further improve fuel efficiency. To go a little greener, they can try switching to higher gears sooner, as this keeps the rpm low and saves on fuel. For example, driving at 60 km/h in third gear will use 25% more gas than if it were in fifth.

Encourage Drivers to Lighten Up When Driving

If you become a certified mechanic, you might know that lighter cars are more fuel-efficient, as they require less energy to move at high speeds. Sadly, not all drivers can afford to switch to a carbon-fibre sports car weighing less than its passengers. However, removing heavy and unnecessary items, like roof boxes and luggage, can help drivers save fuel by as much as 20% over a year.

Make Sure Clients Get Their Vehicle Serviced Regularly

One thing you should learn when you study how to become a mechanic is the importance of getting cars serviced regularly. To ensure that a vehicle is safe and fuel-efficient, it should be serviced after every 20,000 km travelled. Common issues like tire pressure can impact fuel efficiency, as flat tires use more fuel. Similarly, corroded battery cables can lead to wasted fuel, as the alternator has to work much harder. Regular service will help to spot and fix these issues quickly.

Tell Clients That They Can Skip the Air-Con and Wind Down the Windows

Another small trick that can make a big difference is avoiding air conditioning. While nearly all modern cars have good, reliable air-con, this actually increases fuel consumption, particularly when driving at slow speeds. If it’s a sunny day, drivers will save fuel by winding down the windows instead.

Drivers can also save fuel by using less electricity when driving. Turning off heaters, fans, and headlights when they aren’t needed can also help to boost fuel efficiency.

Drivers Can Turn Off the Engine When at a Standstill

Some drivers tend to leave the engine running if they’re only stopping for a few minutes, but this actually needlessly wastes fuel. It’s much better to turn off the engine and restart, which is advice that you might want to pass along to fuel-conscious clients. A lot of modern vehicles have an automatic stop/start system, which means they save energy by automatically switching off at a standstill.

Want to pursue auto mechanic careers in Montreal?

Contact Automotive Training Centres to find out more!