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Portland Auto Repair

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Monthly Archives: December 2024

Why Is My Car's Fuel Efficiency Dropping in the Winter?

Why Is My Car's Fuel Efficiency Dropping in the Winter?

Have you noticed your trips to the gas station are becoming more frequent during the colder months? It’s not your imagination. All drivers experience a drop in fuel efficiency when temperatures take a nosedive. But why does this happen, and what can you do about it? Let’s find out the reasons behind winter’s impact on your car’s MPG. The Impact of Cold Air on Your Engine Cold weather can make your engine work harder. When temperatures drop, the engine oil thickens, increasing resistance. This means your engine needs more effort (and fuel) to operate efficiently. Also, engines take longer to warm up in winter, and they burn more fuel than usual during this warm-up period. These factors are especially noticeable for drivers in places like Portland, CT, where winters can be harsh. Increased Use of Accessories Winter driving comes with added comforts that drain your fuel tank faster. From blasting the heater to defrosting your w ... read more