How to Boost Fuel Economy in Cold Weather

Cold winter temperatures don’t just make driving uncomfortable — they can also reduce your vehicle’s fuel economy. Many drivers notice they’re filling up more often during winter months, even if their driving habits haven’t changed.

The good news? With a few smart adjustments, you can improve your fuel efficiency and get more out of every tank during cold weather.

❄️ Why Fuel Economy Drops in Winter

Fuel economy typically decreases in winter for several reasons:

• Cold air increases aerodynamic drag
• Engines take longer to warm up
• Winter fuel blends are less energy-dense
• More electrical systems are in use (heaters, defrosters, heated seats)

All of this puts extra demand on your vehicle — but it doesn’t mean poor MPG is unavoidable.

🚗 Let Your Engine Warm Up… Briefly

Older vehicles needed long warm-ups, but modern Hondas don’t.

Best practice:

• Start the engine
• Let it idle for 30–60 seconds
• Begin driving gently

Driving warms the engine faster and more efficiently than extended idling.

🛞 Keep Tires Properly Inflated

Cold temperatures lower tire pressure. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which hurts fuel economy.

Tip:

Check tire pressure at least once a month in winter and keep it at the manufacturer-recommended level.

🧼 Clear Snow & Ice Before Driving

Extra snow and ice add weight and drag.

Removing snow from:

• Roof
• Hood
• Windows

can noticeably improve fuel efficiency and safety.

⛽ Drive Smoothly in Slippery Conditions

Aggressive driving wastes fuel and reduces traction.

To save fuel:

• Accelerate gently
• Maintain steady speeds
• Anticipate stops early

Smooth driving improves MPG and winter safety.

🌡️ Use Heating Features Wisely

Heaters, defrosters, and heated seats increase fuel usage — especially in short trips.

Fuel-saving tips:

• Use heated seats instead of blasting cabin heat
• Turn off defrosters once windows are clear
• Avoid unnecessary electrical use

🔧 Stay on Top of Winter Maintenance

A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently.

Winter maintenance to prioritize:

• Engine oil changes
• Air filter replacement
• Battery health checks
• Proper alignment

🚙 Short Trips Hurt Fuel Economy

Short winter trips are especially hard on MPG because engines rarely reach optimal temperature.

How to help:

• Combine errands into one trip
• Avoid multiple cold starts when possible

Winter fuel economy drops are common — but not unavoidable. Small habits like proper tire pressure, gentle driving, and minimizing idling can add up to meaningful savings over the season.

If you want your vehicle running efficiently all winter long, regular maintenance and smart driving habits make all the difference.

📍 Need Help Improving Winter MPG?

Our service team can help check tire pressure, battery health, and winter maintenance items to keep your vehicle running efficiently in cold weather.

👉 Schedule your winter service today!

Tags: mpg, Service, winter
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