How to Improve Gas Mileage with These Simple Auto Tips

August 27, 2021

Alter Driving Habits to Improve Gas Mileage

It’s okay to admit that we all have driving habits. That’s not to say they are all inherently bad. Wearing a seatbelt is a great driving habit to have. However, we should rethink unsafe or inefficient habits. I know change is hard. Nevertheless, if it can improve gas mileage, reduce harmful emissions, and save money, you should consider the following tips.

Drive The Speed Limit

Speed limits  are used for several different reasons. First and foremost, they improve road traffic safety by reducing casualties from both automobile and pedestrian accidents. Second, they reduce the impact of traffic noise and emissions on the environment. Equally important is the effect a speed limit has on fuel consumption. Fuel efficiency declines significantly at speeds over 50 mph. So, if you want to improve gas mileage in town and on the highway, stick to the posted speed limit whenever possible.

Other Useful Driving Tips

Lighten The Load

We are all guilty of using our car for short-term storage from time to time. Unfortunately, all that excess stuff adds unnecessary weight. That extra weight causes poor gas mileage. Lighten the load and see an immediate improvement.

Use Windows & A/C Wisely

Driving with the windows down increases drag, thus reducing fuel efficiency. Using the A/C is a drain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. It’s a classic Catch-22. So, what should you do? A good rule of thumb to remember is, when driving at speeds under 35 mph, open windows are more efficient than A/C. If driving over 35 mph, keep the windows rolled up and use the A/C at a lower setting.

Reduce Idle Times

There is a common myth that all cars need to warm up for 5 minutes (or more), during colder months. In reality, unless your car is a Classic (pre1980) and comes equipped with a carburetor, there is no need to idle that long. Modern cars with electronic fuel injections do not require a long warm-up period. In fact, 30 seconds is considered optimal according to the  U.S. Department of Energy . Needless idling reduces gas mileage and increases greenhouse emissions.

Auto Maintenance Tips to Improve Gas Mileage

Routine auto maintenance is a great way to increase gas mileage. Your automobile is a complicated machine with numerous parts that all require varying degrees of care. A lot of these parts have a direct correlation to fuel efficiency. Below are some of the top maintenance items to service regularly.

Tire Pressure

Tire pressure is sensitive to temperature changes. When the temperatures fall, you may notice that your tires look low. The indicator light may even be on in your dashboard. Don’t ignore that light. Inspect your tires for any sign of damages or slow leaks. Have them repaired or replaced if necessary. Also, use a quality digital gauge to check for low pressure at least once a month. Check the door jam sticker or your owner’s manual for the recommended air pressure for your tires.  Properly inflated tires  perform better by increasing traction, handling, and fuel economy.

Oil Change & Tune-up

Performing an oil change and tune-up have definite advantages for your gas mileage. It is also a good way to prevent small issues from turning into big problems. Whether you DIY or bring your auto to a service station, always use the factory-recommended parts and fluids. Choosing cheaper or alternative options may not only significantly lower your automobile’s performance, but it can be detrimental long term.

Need A Quality Service Station in Pomona?

Taylor Co Japanese Auto Service  is Pomona’s one-stop-shop for all your auto servicing and repair needs. We perform maintenance and repair service on all Japanese makes and models, including Nissan, Honda, and Toyota. Extended warranty work accepted. If you want to improve your gas mileage, bring your Japanese import in today. Our technicians will diagnose any issues and get you back on the road quickly.

Schedule A Service to Improve Gas Mileage

We are located at 344 E. Foothill Blvd, Suite D, Pomona, CA 91767. Stop by in person, call us at (909) 316-6166, or visit us  online  for an appointment. 

We are open Monday-Friday, 8 am – 5 pm.

By Bob Cornwall November 3, 2025
End 2025 on a high note with a complete vehicle check at Super Service of Pomona Valley. From batteries and brakes to fluids and filters, our ASE-certified team keeps your car safe, reliable, and ready for holiday travel. Schedule your late-year inspection today.
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By Bob Cornwall September 30, 2025
Introduction Seasons change, and with them come new challenges for your car. As the air turns crisper and roads may see more rain, now is the perfect time to give your vehicle the attention it deserves. A proactive check now can prevent surprises later breakdowns, costly repairs, or unsafe driving conditions. At Super Service of Pomona Valley , we’re committed to making your auto care experience smoother, more transparent, and more reliable. With our digital inspections, concierge services, and experienced technicians, we’re here to help you finish the year strong and head into the next season with confidence. In this article, we’ll walk through the key systems to inspect, the benefits of doing so, and how our team can help make it hassle-free. Why Seasonal Checks are Smart Right Now A lot changes between hot and cooler months: humidity, rain levels, daylight hours, road conditions, and temperature fluctuations. All of these can strain your car in different ways. Fluids respond differently in cooler weather: Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and transmission fluid may perform differently, and aging fluids are more vulnerable. Battery performance is sensitive to weather shifts: After enduring heat, your battery may be weaker than you think. Cooler weather can expose its weaknesses. Tires & grip matter more: Rain and colder pavement reduce traction, meaning proper tread, alignment, and tire pressure become critical. Lights & visibility become more vital: With shorter days and possible rain or fog, fully functional headlights, brake lights, wipers, and defrosters are essential for safety. Belts, hoses & rubber parts: Temperature swings can accelerate cracking, brittleness, or failure in hoses, belts, and seals if they’re already aged. Heating, defroster & HVAC systems: You want your defroster, heater, and ventilation to work well before the weather worsens; waiting until you need them is risky. Because these changes happen gradually, many drivers don't notice until something fails. Doing a seasonal inspection now means catching weak points while they’re still manageable. What We Inspect During a Seasonal Check At Super Service of Pomona Valley, our seasonal check covers all systems most affected by weather transitions: Battery & Charging System We test battery health, clean terminals, check connections, and ensure your charging system is working properly. Fluids & Coolant We check engine oil, coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid, and top or replace them as necessary. Tires & Alignment We’ll inspect tread depth, look for uneven wear, rotate if needed, and check wheel alignment to ensure stable handling. Brakes Pads, rotors, lines, fluid: everything is checked to make sure your braking system is reliable under challenging conditions. Lights, Wipers & Visibility Headlights, tail lights, turn signals, interior lights all tested. Wiper blades get inspected and replaced if needed. We also check wiper fluid levels and the defroster system. Belts, Hoses & Seals Any cracks, leaks, or brittleness in belts and hoses are flagged. Seals are examined for leaks or deterioration. HVAC / Heating / Defrost Ensure your heating and defrost functions work properly so you’re ready when you need to clear windows or warm up the cabin. Suspension & Steering Components Worn shocks, struts, bushings or steering parts are checked so your car stays stable and predictable. As part of our process, you’ll receive a digital inspection report with photos and videos. We want you to see exactly what our technicians see, no surprises, no pressure, only honest explanations. The Benefits of Acting Now Why not wait until something breaks? Here’s what you gain by being proactive Safety & peace of mind; You’ll drive knowing the car is assessed and ready for changing conditions. Cost savings: Addressing minor issues early is far cheaper than emergency repairs after failure. Better performance: With proper fluids, alignment, and functional systems, your car will run smoother, more efficiently, and reliably. Longevity: Your vehicle ages more gracefully when regular maintenance is done. No inconvenience: By planning, you’re less likely to be stranded or dealing with last-minute emergencies. Conclusion Don’t wait until the weather takes a toll on your car. A seasonal check now gives you confidence, safety, and reliability as conditions shift. At Super Service of Pomona Valley, we’re here to support you with top-tier care, transparency, and convenience. Let us help you prepare: before a small issue becomes a big problem. 📅 Ready to book your seasonal vehicle inspection? https://www.superserviceofpomonavalley.com/
By Super Service of Pomona Valley September 30, 2025
Discover expert brake repair at Super Service of Pomona Valley in Pomona, CA. Ensure your safety with top-notch care. Schedule an online appointment now.
By Super Service of Pomona Valley September 2, 2025
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By Bob Cornwall August 31, 2025
Introduction: September marks the return to routine: school schedules, daily commutes, and weekend errands. But with more time spent on the road, you may also notice your gas tank draining faster. At a time when fuel prices can spike with little warning, every mile counts . Fortunately, improving your vehicle’s fuel efficiency isn’t complicated—it just takes a bit of proactive maintenance and some smart driving habits. That’s why Super Service of Pomona Valley is helping drivers reset their fuel efficiency this fall—with data-backed strategies that save both fuel and money. How Your Vehicle Slowly Loses MPG Over time, various parts of your car wear down, get dirty, or fall out of sync. While your engine may still "feel fine," small inefficiencies can reduce fuel economy by 10–20%, costing you hundreds each year. Here’s what typically drags down your MPG: Clogged Air Filters : Reduce oxygen to the engine, leading to poor combustion. Underin flated Tires : Increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder. Worn Spark Plugs : Misfires or delayed ignition reduce fuel efficiency and power. Old Engine Oil : Causes more friction and strain on internal components. Dragging Brakes : A sticking caliper can constantly resist movement, wasting fuel. Poor Wheel Alignment : Misalignment means the vehicle fights against its own motion. How Much Can You Save? According to the U.S. Department of Energy : Fixing a serious maintenance issue (like a faulty oxygen sensor) can improve mileage by up to 40% Replacing a clogged air filter can improve fuel economy by up to 10% Proper tire inflation improves gas mileage by up to 3% Even small savings compound over time. Improving your fuel efficiency by just 2 MPG could save the average driver over $150 a year . Fall Fuel-Saving Checklist A simple fall tune-up can restore your engine’s performance and fuel economy. Here’s what we recommend: Replace Dirty Air Filters – Restore clean airflow for optimal combustion Check and Adjust Tire Pressure – Especially important during seasonal temperature drops Inspect Spark Plugs – Replace if fouled or past their service life Flush or Replace Engine Oil – Use the manufacturer-recommended viscosity Check Brake Performance – Ensure no dragging or uneven resistance Align the Wheels – Prevent excessive fuel usage from misalignment Run Diagnostic Scan – Address any "Check Engine" lights or fault codes Tips for Smarter Driving Even the most fuel-efficient car can guzzle gas with poor driving habits. To save even more: Avoid Aggressive Driving : Rapid starts and hard braking lower MPG Minimize Idling : Modern engines don’t need long warmups Remove Excess Weight : Every 100 lbs reduces MPG Plan Routes Efficiently : Combine errands to reduce mileage Use Cruise Control on Highways : Maintains consistent speeds Why Super Service of Pomona Valley? We take a comprehensive approach to fuel efficiency: Certified Technicians trained in performance diagnostics Digital Inspections with full transparency Clear Explanations and no-pressure service Affordable Fall Tune-Up Packages Free Alignment Check with every visit Convenient Scheduling, Loaners, and Shuttle Options Conclusion: With daily routines back in full swing and fuel prices rising, now is the time to optimize your vehicle’s fuel economy. A fall efficiency reset can improve your car’s performance, save you money at the pump, and reduce your environmental impact. 👉 Schedule your fuel-efficiency tune-up today at www.superserviceofpomonavalley.com and start saving with every mile.
By Bob Cornwall August 31, 2025
Introduction: Vehicle maintenance isn’t just about fixing problems when they arise; it’s about taking proactive steps to avoid them in the first place. Regular preventative maintenance is the key to extending the life of your vehicle, improving its performance, and ensuring it’s always road-ready. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we believe in the power of preventative care, and in this blog, we’ll explore why keeping up with regular maintenance is one of the smartest investments you can make for your car. 1. The Importance of Regular Oil Changes Oil changes are one of the most basic—and essential—forms of preventative maintenance. Engine oil lubricates the moving parts in your engine, reducing friction and helping to prevent overheating. Over time, oil breaks down and becomes contaminated, leading to poor engine performance and potential damage. What to do: Follow your vehicle manufacturer’s recommended oil change intervals. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we use high-quality oils and filters to keep your engine running smoothly. Our technicians will also check other fluids during the oil change to ensure everything is in top shape. 2. Tire Maintenance: Ensuring Safety and Efficiency Tires are the only point of contact between your vehicle and the road, making their upkeep crucial for your safety. Regular tire maintenance—such as checking tire pressure, rotating your tires, and balancing them—ensures even wear, better fuel efficiency, and longer-lasting tires. What to do: Have your tires rotated every 6,000 to 8,000 miles to ensure even tread wear. Also, check tire pressure regularly and get them balanced when necessary to prevent vibrations and ensure smooth handling. 3. Brake Inspections: Preventing Costly Failure s Your braking system is one of the most critical safety features in your car. Regular brake inspections help identify worn-out brake pads, low fluid levels, or other issues that could lead to brake failure. A sudden brake failure can be dangerous, but regular inspections allow you to fix small issues before they turn into emergencies. What to do: Have your brakes inspected during routine maintenance visits. Dana Meyer Auto Care’s ASE-certified technicians will check the pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure your brakes are functioning properly. 4. Battery Maintenance: Avoid Unexpected Breakdowns Car batteries don’t last forever. Regular battery checks ensure that your battery is holding a charge and functioning properly. A weak or dying battery can leave you stranded at the worst possible time, but routine maintenance can prevent that. What to do: Have your battery tested during your regular maintenance visits. Our technicians will inspect the terminals for corrosion and ensure it’s properly charged so you can start your day without worrying about your car’s reliability. 5. Fluid Checks: Keeping Your Engine and Transmission Running Smoothly Your vehicle depends on a variety of fluids to operate efficiently—coolant, transmission fluid, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and more. Regular fluid checks ensure that your car’s systems stay properly lubricated, preventing overheating and premature wear. What to do: Have all fluids checked regularly, and top them off or replace them when necessary. We can perform fluid flushes as needed to keep your engine and transmission systems running smoothly. 6. Preventing Major Repairs Saves You Money Many of the most expensive car repairs could have been prevented with regular maintenance. Small problems, if ignored, can escalate into major issues that cost much more to fix. By investing in preventative maintenance, you’re saving yourself the headache of costly repairs in the future. What to do: Schedule regular checkups at Dana Meyer Auto Care to catch minor issues before they turn into major problems. Preventative maintenance is far less expensive than repairing a damaged engine, transmission, or braking system. Conclusion: Take Control of Your Vehicle’s Health with Dana Meyer Auto Care Preventative maintenance is an investment in your vehicle’s future. By staying on top of regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake inspections, and fluid checks, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and keep your vehicle running smoothly for years to come. At Dana Meyer Auto Care, we’re here to help you maintain your vehicle with the highest level of service and care. Schedule your next preventative maintenance appointment with us today. Visit www.danameyerautocare.com or call (510) 292-4900 to book your appointment. Keeping your car in peak condition is easy with Dana Meyer Auto Care by your side!
By Super Service of Pomona Valley August 5, 2025
Expert wheel alignment services in Pomona by Super Service of Pomona Valley. Improve your car's performance today! Call us!
By Bob Cornwall July 31, 2025
Introduction: When summer heat rises, so do your chances of tire failure. In Pomona Valley, August is peak season for long drives, highway travel, and sweltering blacktop temperatures. But there’s one critical part of your car that’s often overlooked: your tires. Tires are your vehicle’s only contact with the road, and when the temperatures hit triple digits, they’re the first to feel the stress. Combined with underinflation, aging tread, or uneven wear, this heat becomes a serious safety hazard. That’s why August is Tire Check Month at Super Service of Pomona Valley. Taking just a few minutes to inspect your tires now can prevent dangerous blowouts and costly roadside breakdowns later. How Summer Heat Affects Your Tires Tires may look tough on the outside, but inside, they are made of complex rubber compounds designed to operate within a certain temperature range. Summer heat can push them well beyond that range, especially when driving on sun-baked asphalt. Here’s how heat affects your tires: Increased Road Surface Temperature: Pavement can reach up to 160°F, heating the air inside your tires and increasing internal pressure. Faster Rubber Degradation: UV rays and heat accelerate the aging of rubber, making tires more prone to cracking and separation. Low Tread Equals Less Safety: Bald tires lose grip on hot roads and are more likely to hydroplane during sudden summer storms. Did You Know? According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) , tire-related issues cause over 11,000 crashes annually in the U.S., and tire blowouts spike during the hottest months. The Danger of Under- and Overinflation Temperature fluctuations affect your tire pressure more than you might think. For every 10°F increase, tire pressure increases by approximately 1 PSI (pounds per square inch). That may sound small, but it adds up. Underinflated Tires flex more, causing heat buildup. This can lead to tread separation, sidewall bulging, and eventual blowouts. Overinflated Tires reduce the contact patch with the road, leading to poor grip, uneven wear, and a harsher ride. Maintaining correct tire pressure based on your vehicle’s manual, not the number printed on the tire, is essential to safety and fuel economy. Tread Depth: Your First Line of Defense Tread depth determines how well your tires grip the road. As it wears down, your vehicle becomes more vulnerable to skidding, slipping, and hydroplaning. The legal minimum in most states is 2/32 of an inch, but safety experts recommend replacing tires at 4/32 or earlier, especially in wet conditions. Quick Test: The Penny Trick Insert a penny into your tire tread with Lincoln’s head facing down. If you can see the top of his head, it’s time to replace the tire. Tire Safety Checklist for August Use this checklist to prepare your vehicle for the intense summer heat: Check Tread Depth: Replace if below 4/32" for safe summer grip Inspect for Damage: Look for cracks, cuts, bulges, or sidewall bubbles Monitor Tire Pressure: Check monthly and adjust when temperatures change Check Tire Age: Replace tires older than 6 years, regardless of tread depth Rotate Tires: Every 5,000–6,000 miles to ensure even wear Schedule Wheel Alignment: Keeps your tires from wearing out prematurely Balance Tires: Prevents vibrations and ensures smooth, high-speed travel Why Trust Super Service of Pomona Valley? At Super Service, your safety is our top priority. When it comes to tire care, we go beyond the basics: Certified Tire Specialists are trained to detect early warning signs Top-Tier Tire Brands available on-site with expert installation Digital Inspections with real-time photo and video updates On-Site Balancing & Alignment Services 3-Year / 36,000-Mile Warranty on most repairs and services No-Pressure, Honest Recommendations Shuttle Service & Loaner Cars available for your convenience Conclusion: Your tires are the unsung heroes of your vehicle’s safety and performance, especially during the heat of August. A quick tire inspection now could save you from a serious accident or expensive roadside emergency later. 👉 Schedule your free tire check today at www.superserviceofpomonavalley.com and roll through the season with confidence, safety, and peace of mind
By Super Service of Pomona Valley July 8, 2025
Need reliable brake repair in Pomona, CA? Trust Super Service of Pomona Valley for top-notch service. Visit us today for a safer drive!