A car expert has shared three things drivers need to check to save money on petrol. The tip has gone viral on TikTok, and can save you cash at the pump
A car expert has highlighted three key areas of your vehicle that need to be checked for optimal fuel economy – including the 30,000 mile rule. The car enthusiast shared his insights in a TikTok video posted to his 1.2 million followers.
TikTok user chequanlaosi (@chequanlaosi) emphasises in his video that spark plugs need to be replaced regularly to maximise a car’s mileage. While some spark plugs can last more than 100,000 miles, drivers will see the most benefit from a change every 30,000 miles, according to Bob Moore Auto Group.
The TikTok presenter added that worn spark plugs will reduce your car’s power and increase fuel consumption. Next, the car expert in the clip mentions how a vehicle’s canister purge valve under the hood can remain open, allowing fuel vapour to continuously enter the engine and raise fuel consumption.
Wear and tear, or internal damage can cause a vehicle’s canister purge valve to stay open. You can have a mechanic test your car’s purge valve to ensure it’s working properly. Signs of a faulty canister purge valve include an active check engine light, lower mileage, and engine problems like rough idling, reports the Mirror.
Lastly, he advises drivers to ensure that their vehicle’s oxygen sensor behind the engine doesn’t have excess carbon build-up, which can reduce mileage. After removing the component, you can meticulously clean an oxygen sensor using an MAF sensor cleaner or electrical contact cleaner. Make sure the oxygen sensor is dry before reconnecting it.
A sulphur or rotten egg odour from your car’s exhaust or smoke under the bonnet could also suggest faulty spark plugs. This follows as some motorists are only just discovering that there’s a dashboard button which can instantly slash your fuel expenses.
Whilst contemporary vehicles are packed with buttons, switches and gauges that can seem overwhelming at times, there are several worth familiarising yourself with as they can save you considerable money over time – not just the air conditioning recirculation button.
Swansway Motor Group is now encouraging drivers to learn about a button that can cut your petrol and diesel expenditure every time you get behind the wheel. With average petrol and diesel prices still lingering around peaks of £1.45-£1.50 at most filling stations, there’s never been a more opportune moment to economise on fuel.
The button typically resembles an ‘A’ with a small circular arrow and is generally positioned somewhere on or around the steering wheel. The button automatically turns off the engine when the vehicle comes to a halt, then restarts it once you lift your foot from the brake pedal.
This proves beneficial whilst stuck in congested traffic or at traffic lights, as it dramatically reduces the amount of fuel you squander during these periods, thereby lowering your petrol and diesel expenses.