3 Reasons Why Your Car Is Always Consuming Too Much Fuel

15.08.2025

In fact, there are many reasons why your car might suddenly start consuming more fuel than usual — ranging from seemingly minor technical issues to problems with critical components.

1. Dirty or Clogged Fuel Injectors

Fuel injectors play a crucial role in delivering a precise amount of fuel into the combustion chamber in a fine mist, ensuring efficient burning. However, over time, carbon deposits, soot, and fuel impurities can build up, causing blockage or altering the spray pattern. This improper atomization leads to incomplete combustion — directly resulting in wasted fuel.

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If your car shows signs such as:

  • Poor fuel efficiency: Shorter distance per tank of fuel.
  • Engine roughness: Unstable idling or strange noises.
  • Fluctuating RPM needle: Inconsistent idle speed.
  • Frequent stalling: Engine cuts off when stopping or idling.
  • Reduced performance: Weak acceleration or sluggish response.

…it’s highly likely that your fuel injectors are dirty or malfunctioning.
To prevent this, use high-quality fuel from reputable stations, as low-grade fuel often contains impurities that cause clogging. Regular maintenance and using professional fuel injector cleaners will help keep them in optimal condition.

2. Stuck Brake Calipers

Most drivers don’t associate brakes with fuel consumption, but a stuck brake caliper can drastically increase drag on your car. When the caliper sticks, the brake pads remain pressed against the rotor even when you’re not braking — forcing the engine to work harder to move the car, which burns more fuel.

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Consequences include:

  • Rapid brake pad wear due to constant friction.
  • Reduced engine performance — the car feels heavy or sluggish.
  • Pulling to one side when driving.
  • Burning smell or smoke near the wheels after driving.

If you notice any burning odor or see smoke from one wheel, get your car checked immediately. Ignoring it can not only waste fuel but also lead to dangerous driving conditions.

3. Low Tire Pressure

This is one of the most common and overlooked causes of high fuel consumption. When tire pressure is too low, the contact area between the tire and the road increases, creating more rolling resistance. The engine then needs to use more power to move the car — directly increasing fuel usage.

A study by the U.S. Department of Energy found that for every 1 psi drop in tire pressure below the recommended level, fuel efficiency can decrease by up to 0.3%. It may seem small, but over time, that adds up.

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Get into the habit of checking your tire pressure monthly or before long trips. You can find the recommended pressure on a label inside the driver’s door frame, in the owner’s manual, or near the fuel cap. If your tires are old, cracked, or leak air, it’s best to replace them for safety and efficiency.

Comprehensive Vehicle Care at CarOn-S

Excessive fuel consumption isn’t just costly — it’s a sign that your car’s overall health might be at risk. When unusual symptoms appear, bringing your car to a trusted service center for inspection and maintenance is the smartest move.

At CarOn-S, our professional technicians, modern equipment, and standardized maintenance process ensure your car always performs smoothly, efficiently, and safely.

Visit your nearest CarOn-S Service Center today for a comprehensive check-up and consultation — helping you save fuel and drive with peace of mind on every journey!