Gas prices in Virginia aren’t getting any cheaper — and you might be draining your tank faster than you think. Even if you’re not driving long distances, everyday habits and simple car issues can quietly waste fuel. If you’re constantly filling up but not going far, it’s time to look under the hood (and in the mirror). Let’s look into six silent signs you’re wasting gas — and how to stop it.
Idling
One of the biggest gas wasters? Unnecessary idling. Waiting in your car with the engine running — whether at a drive-thru, school pickup, or warming up the engine for too long — burns fuel for nothing. A typical car can use up to half a gallon of gas per hour just sitting still.
If you’re parked for more than a minute, just shut it off. Modern engines don’t need long warm-ups, even in winter.
Tires
Low tire pressure doesn’t just affect your handling — it drags down your fuel efficiency. When your tires are underinflated, your engine works harder to keep your car moving, especially on long drives.
Even a drop of 5 psi in pressure can reduce your gas mileage by up to 2%. Check your tire pressure monthly and before road trips. A simple tire gauge can save you money every week.
Weight
Is your trunk full of junk? Hauling around extra weight makes your engine burn more fuel, especially in smaller vehicles. Roof racks, cargo boxes, and heavy gear can significantly affect your mileage — sometimes by as much as 10-15%!
Travel light. If you’re not using that gear, take it out. Your wallet will thank you.
Speeding
Driving fast might be fun, but it’s a gas guzzler. The faster you go, especially over 60 mph, the more drag your vehicle faces — and the more fuel it burns to maintain that speed.
Here’s a good rule: for every 5 mph over 60, you’re paying about $0.20 more per gallon in fuel economy loss. Cruise control can help keep your speed steady and efficient.
AC Use
We all love cold air in summer, especially in Virginia’s heat. But cranking the air conditioning full-blast all the time can drain your fuel — especially in older cars or when idling.
Try using the A/C on a lower setting or using fresh-air ventilation when possible. And never run the A/C with the windows down — it kills both fuel efficiency and comfort.
Maintenance
A dirty air filter, old spark plugs, or bad oxygen sensors? All of these reduce fuel efficiency. When your engine isn’t running at peak performance, it burns more gas to do the same amount of work.
Check your maintenance schedule and don’t skip oil changes, filter replacements, or tune-ups. A well-maintained engine can improve fuel economy by up to 4% or more.
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Gas-Wasting Habit | Fuel Impact |
|---|---|
| Idling too long | ½ gallon/hour burned |
| Low tire pressure | Up to 2% MPG loss |
| Excess weight | 1-2% MPG loss per 100 lbs |
| Speeding over 60 mph | ~$0.20/gal cost increase |
| Constant A/C use | ~5-10% less fuel economy |
| Skipping maintenance | 4%+ MPG loss |
Small changes add up. Fixing even one of these habits can stretch your gas mileage further. Fix a few? You’ll start noticing fewer trips to the gas station — and more cash in your pocket.
FAQs
Does idling waste more gas than restarting?
Yes, idling over a minute burns more than restarting.
Can low tire pressure reduce gas mileage?
Yes, it increases resistance and lowers MPG.
How much weight affects fuel economy?
100 lbs can cut MPG by up to 2%.
Is using A/C bad for gas mileage?
Yes, especially at idle or on full blast.
Can a tune-up improve gas mileage?
Yes, by fixing issues that waste fuel.
