Reasons Why Gasoline Engines "Consume Fuel"

fuel efficient car
Latest update date: February 27, 12

Gasoline engine is a type of internal combustion engine that converts chemical energy from gasoline into mechanical energy to create work. This type of engine has become popular and is widely used in many fields, from cars, motorbikes to industrial machinery.

Unusual fuel consumption is a common problem that many drivers encounter. Understanding the causes of this condition not only helps save operating costs but also protects the car engine. Below are the main causes of Gasoline engines "eat" fuel, with specific figures and examples.

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Causes of engine "fuel consumption"

Worn piston rings

Piston rings play an important role in sealing the piston chamber and preventing lubricating oil from leaking into the combustion chamber. When the piston rings are worn, oil will easily enter the combustion chamber and be burned, leading to lubricating oil consumption and increased fuel consumption. According to research, if the piston rings are not replaced in time, engine efficiency can be reduced by up to 20%.

Driver driving habits

Driving habits also have a big impact on fuel consumption. Sudden acceleration or hard braking can cause the ECU (engine control unit) to supply more fuel to maintain performance. According to one survey, driving at an inconsistent speed can increase fuel consumption by up to 30% compared to driving at a steady speed.

Cold weather

As temperatures drop, lubricating oil becomes thicker, making the engine work harder to start. Extended warm-up times can result in up to 15% more fuel consumption in cold weather conditions.

Researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory (2022) in the study 'Cold Weather Effects on Vehicle Fuel Efficiency' demonstrated that cold temperatures can increase fuel consumption by 12-28% due to increased engine oil viscosity and extended warm-up times.

- Reasons Why Gasoline Engines "Consume Fuel"
Cold weather makes engines consume fuel

Use low octane fuel

Low octane fuel not only reduces engine performance, but also leads to knocking, which damages the engine and increases fuel consumption. For example, an engine with a compression ratio of 10:1 requires fuel with a minimum octane rating of 100 to operate efficiently.

Low tire pressure

Under-inflated tires create more drag when moving, forcing the engine to expend more energy to maintain speed. According to research, every 1 psi drop in tire pressure can increase fuel consumption by 0,4%.

Forgot to change the lubricant

Lubricating oil acts as the “blood” of the engine. When the oil loses its ability to lubricate well due to long-term use, friction between parts increases, leading to greater fuel consumption. Regular oil changes help maintain optimal engine performance and save fuel.

- Reasons Why Gasoline Engines "Consume Fuel"
Forgetting to change the oil causes the car to waste fuel.

Damaged spark plugs and ignition coils

A faulty spark plug or an inefficient ignition coil will reduce the ability to ignite the air-fuel mixture, causing the engine to run erratically and consume more fuel. One study found that if a spark plug is worn, fuel consumption can increase by up to 15%.

Oxygen sensor not working properly

The oxygen sensor is an important part that helps regulate the amount of fuel injected into the combustion chamber. If this sensor is faulty, it can cause too much or too little fuel to be injected, leading to higher than normal fuel consumption.

Dirty air filter

If the air filter is not replaced periodically, it will reduce the air flow into the combustion chamber, causing an imbalance in the air-fuel mixture and increasing fuel consumption. Experts recommend replacing the air filter every 20.000 km to ensure optimal engine performance.

Toyota Technical Center research (2024) in 'Air Filtration Systems and Engine Performance' indicates that a dirty air filter can reduce engine performance by up to 11% and increase fuel consumption by up to 10%.

- Reasons Why Gasoline Engines "Consume Fuel"
Dirty air filter makes engine consume more fuel

To minimize the fuel consumption of the car, drivers need to pay attention to regular maintenance and timely replacement of damaged parts. This not only helps save costs but also prolongs the life of the engine. Regularly check factors such as tire pressure, lubricant quality and the condition of important parts to ensure the car always operates at peak performance.

Understanding the causes of fuel consumption will help drivers easily “diagnose the problem” and handle it promptly when the car has problems with abnormal fuel consumption. Hopefully this article has provided useful and detailed information about the causes of abnormal fuel consumption in cars!

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why does piston ring wear affect fuel consumption?

Worn piston rings cause oil to leak into the combustion chamber, increasing fuel consumption by up to 20% as the engine has to work harder to maintain power.

2. What are some ways to improve driving habits to save fuel?

Drivers can save up to 30% fuel by maintaining a steady speed, avoiding sudden acceleration and slowing down gradually when braking.

3. What impact does low octane have on engine performance?

Low octane fuel can reduce engine performance by 10% to 15% and cause knocking, resulting in serious engine damage.

4. How to check tire pressure properly?

Drivers should check tire pressure at least once a month; low tire pressure can increase fuel economy by up to 4% for every psi drop. Read the article now: Car tire pressure sensor – Which type is good & things to keep in mind.

5. Why is it important to change the lubricating oil regularly?

Regular oil changes help maintain optimum lubrication, reduce friction and prevent performance loss of up to 10% due to dirt build-up in the oil. Read the article now: Harmful effects of poor quality lubricants & the safest way to buy.

6. What technologies are available today to improve fuel efficiency?

Technologies such as electronic fuel injection, advanced oxygen sensors and intelligent engine control systems can help improve fuel efficiency by up to 20%.

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