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Writer's pictureHarry Tepe

How To Improve Your Car’s Fuel Efficiency On Midwest Roads



Car’s Fuel Efficiency

As a vehicle owner, you’re likely always on the lookout for ways to save money and keep your car running smoothly.


One common challenge that many of us face is improving our car’s fuel efficiency, especially on the varying Midwest roads through Ohio, Indiana, Kentucky, and cities like Cincinnati and Indianapolis.


Did you know that simple steps like regular maintenance can significantly affect how much gas your car uses?


It’s true; something as straightforward as keeping up with oil changes and making sure your tires are properly inflated can make a noticeable difference.


In this blog post, I’ll share tips from my team at Tom Tepe Autocenter on enhancing fuel economy in vehicles.


Whether it’s using the right motor oil or choosing low-rolling resistance tires for better miles per gallon, we’ve got you covered.


We will also talk about how selecting a fuel-efficient vehicle from our collection at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country could be beneficial for both your pocketbook and the environment around cities such as Harrison, Ohio, Aurora, Indiana, and Milan, Indiana.

Get ready to improve your driving experience!


Keep reading to learn more.


Key Takeaways


  • Regular maintenance, such as changing your car’s oil and checking tire pressure, improves gas mileage and keeps your engine running smoothly.

  • Driving at a steady speed and using cruise control on highways can significantly increase your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

  • Low rolling resistance tires minimize energy loss during movement, leading to better fuel economy for your vehicle.

  • Fuel additives clean out impurities in the engine system, enhancing performance and gas mileage.

  • Choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle from Tom Tepe Autocenter or Car Country benefits both the environment by reducing carbon emissions and saving money on gasoline expenses over time.


Why Improving Fuel Efficiency is Important on Midwest Roads


Improving fuel efficiency on Midwest roads plays a critical role in cutting down carbon emissions and enhancing gas mileage, especially for vehicles like 4-cylinder cars that thrive on these flatter terrains.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we understand the unique benefits that Midwest drivers can leverage to save on gasoline expenses and contribute to a healthier planet. With less hilly roads, your vehicle can maintain better fuel economy, making each trip more efficient and eco-friendly.


Advocating for advancements in fuel-efficient technologies, including hybrid cars, electric vehicles (EVs), and low-carbon fuels, is essential. These innovations not only improve air quality by reducing pollution but also pave the way for significant savings on fuel consumption over time.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter is dedicated to helping our customers find the perfect fuel-efficient vehicle—be it a hybrid car or an EV—that suits their lifestyle while making positive environmental impacts.


Transitioning to more fuel-efficient models available at our dealership means enjoying smoother rides across the Midwest roads with reduced greenhouse gas emissions and lower gasoline costs.


Tips for Improving Fuel Efficiency on Midwest Roads


Driving smarter on Midwest roads plays a big part in boosting your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter constantly advises customers to focus on simple yet effective steps like maintaining steady speeds and ensuring their tires are properly filled with air.


These actions not only extend the life of your car but also contribute significantly to fuel savings, making each trip more economical. At our dealership, we emphasize the importance of regular maintenance checks and using the right products to enhance your engine’s performance.


From choosing low-resistance wheels that decrease energy loss during motion to opting for high-quality engine additives that clean and lubricate internal parts, every choice impacts your fuel consumption positively.


Come visit us at Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country; let us help you make driving in the Midwest as efficient as possible!


Maintain your vehicle regularly


Keeping your car in top shape is crucial for improving fuel efficiency, especially on Midwest roads where conditions can vary. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, our team suggests regular checkups to keep engine performance at its peak.


This means changing the oil and replacing the air filter, spark plugs, and fuel filters as needed. Clean engines run more efficiently than those clogged with dirt and debris, leading to better gas mileage.


Our automotive professionals also stress the importance of checking your vehicle’s tire pressure regularly. Tires that are not properly inflated create more resistance when moving, which makes your engine work harder and uses more fuel.


Simple actions like making sure your tires are filled to the right pressure can have a significant impact on fuel economy standards. By focusing on these maintenance tasks, drivers can ensure their cars are not only safer but also more fuel-efficient—translating into real savings at the pump over time.


Consider bringing your vehicle to Tom Tepe Autocenter for a tune-up or service; we’re here to help you get the most out of each gallon of gas with our expertise in auto repair and maintenance services designed for optimal performance and efficiency.


Maintain your vehicle regularly

Drive at a steady speed


After ensuring your vehicle is in top shape with regular maintenance, the next step towards enhancing fuel efficiency on Midwest roads involves mastering your driving speed. Driving at a steady pace not only contributes to optimal fuel mileage but also reduces wear on your vehicle’s engine and brakes.


It’s well-documented that cars achieve their best gas mileage at moderate speeds. Specifically, gasoline-powered passenger vehicles are most efficient when cruising between 30-40 miles per hour.


“Aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by up to 40%.”


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, our team advises against speeding and recommends using cruise control to maintain a consistent speed on highways. This practice not only conserves fuel but adheres to traffic laws, ensuring safety for all road users.


Research supports this advice by highlighting how vehicles start to lose fuel economy significantly once they exceed 50 mph. By sticking to these guidelines, drivers can enjoy longer trips without frequent stops at the gas station, making every journey more economical and environmentally friendly.


Steady speed

Use fuel additives


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter understands the importance of keeping your engine running smoothly to improve fuel efficiency, especially on Midwest roads. Fuel additives serve as an excellent tool for this.


They work by cleaning out carbon deposits and other impurities within your engine’s system. This process helps maintain a clean car engine, which is crucial for optimal performance and fuel economy.


Choosing the right fuel additive is key; some products make big promises but fail to deliver. We recommend selecting options that have proven efficacy in enhancing fuel mileage by ensuring your engine oil and exhaust systems are free from contaminants that can hinder performance.


By integrating high-quality fuel additives into your regular maintenance routine, you contribute significantly to reducing oil consumption and improving overall fuel use – making each drive more efficient and eco-friendly.


Our professionals at Car Country are always ready to guide you towards the best products tailored specifically for boosting cleanliness and efficiency in hybrid vehicles, manual cars, or whatever model drives into our service bay.


Properly inflate your tires


After exploring the benefits of fuel additives, another crucial strategy to enhance your vehicle’s fuel efficiency involves maintaining the correct tire pressure. Keeping your car tires properly inflated can significantly boost gas mileage – by up to 3%.


It’s a simple yet effective approach every driver can adopt.


Regular checks ensure your tires are at their ideal pressure, preventing unnecessary drag that forces engines to work harder and consume more fuel. This practice not only contributes to better fuel economy but also extends the life of your tires, saving you money on both gas and tire replacements over time.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we emphasize this quick check as part of routine maintenance to enhance your vehicle’s performance and efficiency on Midwest roads.


Use cruise control


Using cruise control on your vehicle can drastically improve fuel efficiency, especially when driving on Midwest roads where long stretches of highway are common. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we’ve seen firsthand how setting your car to maintain a steady speed reduces the constant acceleration and braking that typically eats up more gas.


Natural Resources Canada found that cars cruising at about 50 mph with this feature consumed less fuel. This is because maintaining an even speed uses less energy than fluctuating speeds.


For drivers of hybrids from our dealership, it’s important to note that while cruise control offers significant savings for conventional vehicles, hybrid models might see a decrease in efficiency in this mode due to their design to switch between power sources optimally.


To get the most out of your vehicle’s fuel economy, combining the use of cruise control with regular maintenance checks available at Car Country ensures you’re not only saving money on gas but also extending the life of your vehicle.


Whether you own a subcompact or a roomy minivan perfect for family trips across Harrison, Ohio and beyond, activating this simple feature could lead to substantial savings over time.


Explore New and Used Fuel-Efficient Vehicles


Exploring both new and pre-owned fuel-sipping cars opens the door to a world where you spend less at the pump and contribute positively to our environment. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we pride ourselves in offering a wide selection of vehicles that go easy on fuel, from advanced electric models to hybrids that blend gasoline power with electric efficiency.


New fuel-efficient vehicles at Tom Tepe Autocenter


At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we offer a range of new fuel-efficient vehicles that meet the needs of any driver looking to save on gas and reduce their carbon footprint. Our lineup includes advanced electric cars, hybrids equipped with stop-start systems, and plug-in electrics designed for those who prioritize sustainability without compromising on performance.


Each model boasts features aimed at boosting fuel economy, from aerodynamic designs to cutting-edge engine technologies.


Our team is committed to guiding you through the benefits of each eco-friendly option - whether it’s an electric sedan perfect for city commuting or a hybrid SUV ready for Midwest roads.


We emphasize low-carbon fuels and EV-readiness in our selection process, ensuring that our customers not only drive off in a vehicle that fits their lifestyle but also contribute positively to environmental efforts.


Discover how investing in a fuel-efficient car from Tom Tepe Autocenter can enhance your driving experience while supporting sustainability goals.


inflate your tires

Affordable used fuel-efficient vehicles


Finding an affordable, used, fuel-efficient vehicle is a smart choice for many drivers looking to save money at the pump without sacrificing quality. Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country takes pride in offering a selection of vehicles that meet these criteria.


We carefully inspect each pre-owned car, ensuring it meets our high standards for efficiency and reliability. This means you can drive off our lot with confidence, knowing you’ve made a great investment in your future driving experience.


Our inventory includes models known for their excellent mileage, from sedans that glide effortlessly on highways to compact cars perfect for city driving. With the 2024 Fuel Economy Guide’s insights, we help customers identify which models will deliver the best value over time.


This approach aligns perfectly with the Safer Affordable Fuel-Efficient (SAFE) Vehicles Rule, emphasizing affordability without compromising performance.


“Drive smarter, not harder—with one of our pre-selected fuel-efficient vehicles.”


Financing Options for Your Fuel-Efficient Vehicle


Securing the right financing for your fuel-efficient vehicle can make all the difference. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we understand how crucial it is to find a plan that works for you and helps maximize your savings on gas costs over time.


That’s why we spotlight vehicles with high fuel economy ratings and provide access to special financing programs designed just for these types of cars. The 2024 Fuel Economy Guide plays a pivotal role in our process, offering detailed annual fuel cost estimates that assist us in advising you on the best financial decisions for acquiring a fuel-efficient model.


We also take pride in guiding our customers toward smarter choices by leveraging the advantages of the Fuel-Efficient Auto Program. This program offers appealing lower rates specifically for financing hybrids, electric sedans, or any alternative-fueled machines known for their generous miles-per-gallon figures.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter makes it simple by walking you through each step, ensuring you’re well-informed about how these options can lead to significant savings both at purchase and while cruising down those Midwest roads.


Opting for one of these vehicles not only aligns with maintaining a greener planet but also places you ahead financially with lower monthly payments and reduced operating costs over time.


How to Value Your Trade-In for a More Fuel-Efficient Model


Understanding the value of your current vehicle plays a crucial role in making the switch to a more fuel-efficient model. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we guide our customers by accurately evaluating their trade-ins for a seamless transition.


Start by researching your car’s worth using online valuation tools. These platforms can give you a ballpark figure based on your vehicle’s make, year, and condition. Yet, every car has its unique story—things like maintenance history and any upgrades or modifications can sway this number.


Taking these initial steps arms you with knowledge before entering negotiations. When you visit us at Tom Tepe Autocenter & Car Country, bring all relevant information about your current ride along.


Our team will inspect it thoroughly—looking under the hood, checking tire conditions, and considering factors like mileage and overall wear and tear—to offer you an honest trade-in value that aligns with its true market worth.


This process not only ensures fairness but also maximizes your potential savings towards purchasing that gas-saving sedan or hybrid SUV from our selection. Let us help make upgrading to an eco-friendly vehicle both exciting and economically smart for everyone involved.


How Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country Can Help You Improve Fuel Efficiency


At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, our team focuses on boosting your vehicle’s miles per gallon. We offer low-friction tires and budget-friendly maintenance services to keep your car running smoothly.


Low-rolling resistance tires


Low rolling resistance tires are a game changer for anyone looking to boost their car’s fuel efficiency, especially on Midwest roads. These tires reduce the energy lost as heat when the tire moves, meaning your vehicle doesn’t have to work as hard to keep rolling.


Our team at Tom Tepe Autocenter has seen firsthand how switching to these innovative tires can lead to a 5% improvement in gas mileage under various driving conditions. With rising gas prices and environmental concerns, making such an upgrade is not just smart; it’s essential.


Opting for low-rolling resistance tires could save you up to $36 annually if gas costs $3 per gallon. This might sound modest at first glance, but every drop of fuel saved adds up and contributes to lessening our environmental footprint.


At Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country, we proudly offer these eco-friendly tire options because we’re committed not only to improving your driving experience but also to promoting sustainable practices on the road.


Investing in these tires means enjoying longer trips across Harrison, Ohio or anywhere in the Midwest without frequent stops at the pump and doing your part for the planet, too.


Low-rolling resistance tires

Affordable tune-up services


Moving from the importance of low rolling resistance tires, consider another key factor in boosting your car’s fuel efficiency: affordable tune-up services. At Tom Tepe Autocenter, we understand that regular maintenance, like oil changes, air-filter replacements, and spark plug checks, are vital for keeping your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently.


These services not only improve your mileage but also ensure that every drive on Midwest roads is as economical as possible.


Our team specializes in providing cost-effective solutions to maintain your vehicle’s performance. We focus on essential maintenance tasks such as adjusting the engine’s timing, inspecting the fuel system for leaks or blockages, and ensuring the correct air pressure in tires—all of which contribute significantly to enhanced fuel economy.


Our goal at Tom Tepe Autocenter is to offer services that extend the life of your vehicle while minimizing its impact on both your wallet and the environment.


“Keeping our customers’ vehicles running at peak efficiency is not just a job; it’s our mission.”


tune-up services

Conclusion


Keeping your car in top shape, driving steadily, and using tech like cruise control on Midwest roads cuts down on fuel use. These steps are simple yet very effective. They save you money and help the planet, too.


Our Tom Tepe Autocenter team always suggests regular checkups and the right tires for better gas mileage. Making small changes leads to big benefits for your wallet and our world. Let these tips guide you toward more eco-friendly driving habits today.


FAQs


1. How can I make my car more fuel-efficient on Midwest roads?


To improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency in the Midwest, consider using advanced biofuels if compatible with your vehicle, ensure your engine oils are up to date for optimal performance, and regularly check that your tires are properly inflated. Avoiding long periods of engine idle and practicing smooth acceleration and braking also helps.


2. Will driving a manual transmission car save me more on gas?

Yes, vehicles with manual transmissions can be more fuel-efficient than their automatic counterparts when driven correctly. By shifting gears at the right time and maintaining lower RPMs with the help of a tachometer, you can maximize fuel efficiency.


3. Can changing how I pack my car affect its fuel efficiency?


Absolutely! Overloading your vehicle or attaching large trailers or roof racks increases wind resistance (drag) and weight, causing it to consume more fuel. Packing lightly and removing unnecessary external attachments when not in use will help reduce drag and improve gas mileage.


4. Is it better for my fuel efficiency to turn off my car at tollbooths or while waiting in traffic?


Turning off your car during prolonged stops like at tollbooths or stuck in heavy traffic prevents wasting gas through idling. Modern cars are designed to restart quickly without significantly wearing down the starter mechanism, making this practice both efficient and beneficial for saving on gas over time.


5. How does choosing the right type of vehicle impact my fuel costs in Harrison, Ohio?


Selecting a vehicle that matches your needs is crucial; opting for plug-in vehicles, hybrid models or even smaller cars instead of larger trucks or SUVs can drastically reduce your gasoline expenses due to their inherently better miles per gallon (MPG). Vehicles designed as ‘fuel cell vehicles’ represent another option offering high-efficiency levels suitable for those looking to minimize their carbon footprint alongside operational costs.


6. Are there any benefits from utilizing public transportation systems regarding personal savings on gas?


Embracing mass transit options available around Harrison, Ohio, not only contributes towards reducing overall climate change impacts but also significantly lowers individual spending on gasoline by decreasing personal vehicular usage frequency—especially during peak commuting hours where stop-and-go conditions prevail.


 

Harry Tepe, Owner and Dealer Principal, Tom Tepe Autocenter

 

Harry Tepe is a seasoned automotive expert and the owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, a leading vehicle dealership serving the Midwest states of Ohio, Indiana, and Kentucky. With a lifelong passion for automobiles.

 

Over the years, Harry worked his way up through various roles, absorbing valuable insights into sales management and dealership operations until he became the youngest GM Dealer Principal and owner of Tom Tepe Autocenter, expanding the business to include multiple locations and a standalone reconditioning center.

 

Under Harry's leadership, Tom Tepe Autocenter and Car Country in Aurora and Harrison, Ohio, have grown exponentially, selling over 2000 vehicles annually and generating over $50 million in revenue. His active involvement in the industry is further evidenced by his participation in the NADA 20 Group and his influential role on the Board of Directors for the Indiana Auto Dealers Association, even serving as its President in 2016.


Harry's journey embodies the essence of expertise, authority, and trustworthiness. His insights and experiences are not just stories of personal growth and business success; they are testaments to his deep understanding of and commitment to the automotive industry.

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