9 Common Reasons Your Car is Consuming More Fuel in Malaysia and How to Fix It

Your car can only travel so far on a single tank of fuel, but with a few adjustments, you can ensure you're getting the most out of each drop. Maximizing fuel efficiency not only saves you money at the pump but also helps reduce your vehicle’s emissions, contributing to a cleaner environment. If you're driving in Malaysia, MyMechanic offers expert car services to help keep your vehicle running smoothly and efficiently. Here are nine reasons why your car might be using more fuel than it should and how to address them.

1. Spark Plug Problems

Spark plugs play a essential role in generating the right spark for combustion. If they’re worn out or misfiring, it could lower your car’s fuel economy by as much as 30%. If your vehicle is misfiring, your engine isn’t operating correctly, leading to wasted fuel. Spark plugs normally last around 100,000 km, but you may need to replace them sooner if they’re causing issues. Have them checked by your trusted mechanic at MyMechanic to ensure optimal performance.

2. Clogged Engine Air Filter

A clogged air filter can restrict airflow to the engine, causing it to consume more fuel to compensate. This problem is more significant in older cars, though newer models also suffer from reduced acceleration when the air filter is blocked. In Malaysia’s humid environment, it is important to change your air filter every 15,000 to 30,000 km to maintain engine performance. Visit MyMechanic for a quick air filter replacement during your next oil change.

3. Skipping Oil Changes

Neglecting regular oil changes can cause thicker, older oil that puts extra strain on your engine. This causes your engine to overheat and run slower, which increases fuel consumption. Whether you drive a Proton, Perodua, or Toyota, make sure you follow your car’s recommended oil change intervals (usually around 5,000 km). MyMechanic offers quick, reliable oil changes to keep your vehicle running at its best.

4. Clogged Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors are responsible for delivering the right amount of fuel to the engine. Over time, they can clog up due to carbon deposits, reducing fuel efficiency. If you notice rough idling, stalling, or poor acceleration, it may be time to have your injectors cleaned or replaced. Don’t rely on store-bought injector cleaners—let the experts at MyMechanic diagnose and solve the problem.

5. Not Enough Air in the Tires

Proper tire inflation is crucial for fuel efficiency. Under-inflated tires cause more drag, which uses more fuel. By keeping your tires properly inflated, you can improve your fuel economy by up to 3%. It's easy to check your tire pressure and inflate them yourself, but if you need help, MyMechanic can assist with tire inspections and replacements to ensure your tires are in top condition.

6. Idling Too Much

Idling consumes fuel without getting you anywhere. In Malaysia's traffic-heavy areas, it's tempting to leave your car running while waiting for someone. However, idling for 15 minutes can burn up to a quarter-gallon of fuel. Turn off your engine if you're stopped for more than a couple of minutes, and avoid excessive idling in the morning. Let MyMechanic provide a complete service check to ensure your engine starts efficiently every time.

7. Driving Too Fast

Speeding and aggressive driving can significantly reduce your fuel economy. In Malaysia, where traffic speeds vary, staying within speed limits and driving smoothly can make a big difference. Every 5 km/h over 50 km/h can cost you an extra 18 cents per liter of fuel. Adopt smooth driving habits, such as gentle acceleration and braking, and your fuel savings will add up.

8. Blasting the Air Conditioning

Running the air conditioning system in your car is convenient, but it consumes a substantial amount of fuel, especially in hot Malaysian weather. A/C can reduce fuel efficiency by 20-25%. To help improve your fuel economy, consider driving with the windows down at lower speeds and saving the air conditioning for highway driving. MyMechanic also offers A/C servicing to ensure your system is running efficiently when you need it.

9. It's the Weather

In Malaysia’s tropical climate, weather plays a role in your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. During the rainy season, cooler temperatures and higher humidity can cause your engine to take longer to reach optimal fuel efficiency. You may also experience more drag from wet roads. If your car is running inefficiently, schedule a service with MyMechanic to ensure everything from engine performance to tire conditions is up to standard.

Keep Your Car Running Efficiently with MyMechanic

Whether you're experiencing issues with fuel efficiency or need routine maintenance, MyMechanic is your trusted partner for car services across Malaysia. From spark plugs to fuel injectors, our skilled technicians can help get your car back in top condition, ensuring you're saving fuel and money while reducing emissions.

For more tips on fuel economy and car maintenance, contact MyMechanic or book a service online today!