How to improve fuel economy in your MINI

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Fuel economy in your MINI is affected by several factors, all of which are under your control. Here are some tips for improving your MINI's gas mileage:


DRIVING TIPS:

Drive smoothly - go easy on the gas pedal when accelerating from a stop and brake gently when coming to a stop. Look ahead to see if you really need more speed.

Observe the speed limit - the faster you drive, the more gas your MINI burns. Driving the speed limit is a good way to conserve fuel.

Use your Cruise Control - driving a constant speed uses less gas than varying your speed.

Reduce Air Conditioner usage - the AC system puts a load on the engine which uses more fuel. Open windows when driving at less than highway speeds. (see below) Use AC when at highway speeds.

Keep Windows closed - Open windows create aerodynamic drag at freeway speeds which uses more gas than using AC with the windows closed. Use AC at highway speeds. Open windows when driving at less than highway speeds.

Take less congested route - stop & go driving is very inefficient. Take a less congested route even if it's a slightly longer route.

Avoid excessive idling - turn engine off if you sit still for more than a minute.

Use up the whole tank - don't fill the tank until it's below 1/4 tank. If you like to keep your tank above the 1/2 mark, your MINI is hauling more weight in your tank!

MINI MAINTENANCE

Keep your tires properly inflated - check your MINI manual for proper tire pressures and check them at least once a month. Underinflated tires requires more energy to roll.

Use the recommended grade/viscocity of Motor Oil - yes, using the wrong viscosity can affect your gas mileage! Look for the Energy Conserving API label. This symbol indicates that the oil is certified, fuel-efficient oil by the American Petroleum Institute (API). MINI approved oils are in SAE classes 5W-40 and 5W-30.

MINI diet - if you car is loaded with unnecessary 'stuff', unload it! It takes more gas to move more weight. (You can also improve gas mileage by switching to light weight alloy wheels with standard tires. The stock MINI wheels and the runflat tires are quite heavy.)

Keep your MINI properly tuned. Here are some items that will affect fuel economy when they are dirty/ old/ or damaged:
(Click on item to see a list of replacements.)

Air Filters - Dirty air filters will reduce engine efficiency leading to reduce fuel economy.
Ignition Wires - Damaged ignition wires reduces the spark energy which leads to reduced fuel economy.
Ignition Coil - Damaged ignition coil reduces the spark energy which leads to reduced fuel economy.
Spark Plugs - Worn spark plugs or plugs with the wrong gap will produce less than optimum spark which leads to reduced fuel economy.
Tire Inflation - Use a high quality tire gauge to accurately check your tires for proper inflation.

MINI recommends the use of unleaded premium fuel with a minimum octane rating of 91 (R+M)/2.

Above all, drive sensibly and safely. Plan your driving so you don't make unnecessary trips. Carpool when possible.

Happy Motoring!

Article Date: Jul 03, 2007
Car Accociations: NEW_MINI
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