Everyone wants to get the best mpg possible, and understandably so. There are a few fuel saving tips which I've heard many times (run higher tire pressures, wind windows up etc.), and I'm sure you've heard them before as well, so I won't elaborate on them here. This page has some gas saving tips, which I think most people
haven't heard before. Some of these are specific to 4x4s, and some apply to all vehicles.
I have fitted a handy gauge to my 4x4 called an EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) gauge. Exhaust gas temperature is related to how much fuel is being injected into the engine, so obviously it can be used as an economy gauge, but it's also a good idea to monitor EGTs for engine durability reasons. I strongly recommend EGT gauges for all turbo diesel 4x4s. Learn more here.
Running higher tire pressures certainly helps save gas on the pavement, but sometimes we can save fuel by running lower tire pressures. Wait, what? Lower pressures? Yes, it's all about efficiency.
Good vehicle maintenance can help you save fuel too. Nearly all modern 4x4s have an Air Flow Meter, which is critical to engine performance and economy. It simply measures the amount of air going into the engine and sends this information to the ECU (Electronic Control Unit, or the computer which controls a modern engine). The ECU uses this information to determine how much fuel to inject. If the Air Flow Meter is dirty, the ECU will inject a less than ideal amount of fuel, hurting both performance and economy. Click here to learn how to clean your Air Flow Meter.
The driver can have the biggest effect on gas mileage. You may be doing something unintentionally, which is wasting fuel. Here is a simple driving tip that can help you get the best MPG from your 4x4. It will also help you be a smoother driver in different off road situations.
Modern diesel engines can offer excellent fuel economy, performance and reliability. But the quality of diesel fuel you put into your 4x4 is critical to maximizing both fuel economy and reliability. Click here to read about diesel additives, and how they can improve mileage.
I use these gas mileage tips all the time, and I must say I am very pleased with the economy I get from my 4x4. I encourage you to use them and get the best mpg possible from your 4x4.