Embrace The Summer Heat by Squeezing Every Mile Out of Your Volkswagen This Summer

The summer season is upon us, promising warmth, vacation time, and a multitude of adventures on the road. If you’re a Volkswagen owner, you'll be eager to roll down the windows, rev up the engine, and cruise to your heart’s content under the summer sun. But amidst the merriment, it's wise to be mindful of your vehicle’s fuel consumption. In this article, we'll reveal some invaluable tips to help you enhance your Volkswagen’s fuel efficiency this summer.

1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

Just as humans need to stay hydrated during summer, your Volkswagen's tires need to be properly inflated. Low tire pressure increases rolling resistance, causing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. So, ensure that your tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. A properly inflated tire can improve your fuel economy by up to 3%.

2. Lighten Your Load

Your holiday luggage or that camping equipment in your trunk might be making your Volkswagen guzzle more gas than necessary. A heavier car requires more energy to move, and thus more fuel. Lightening your load by removing unnecessary items can significantly improve fuel economy. This doesn't mean you should leave your beach gear at home, but maybe reconsider that set of dumbbells and your bowling ball you’ve been carting around.

3. Embrace Cruise Control

When you’re heading out on a long, summer road trip, cruise control can be your best friend. It helps maintain a constant speed, preventing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration, which can sap your fuel economy. So, on the highway, let your Volkswagen’s cruise control take charge and enjoy the ride.

4. Avoid Idling

While it might be tempting to keep the AC running while you take a quick pit stop for ice cream, remember that an idling car uses more fuel than you might think. If you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute, it's better to turn the engine off. Modern Volkswagens come equipped with start-stop systems which automate this process, saving you fuel and reducing emissions.

5. Keep Your Engine Tuned

A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently, consuming less fuel. Regular servicing as per Volkswagen's maintenance schedule ensures your engine is running optimally. Simple measures such as timely oil changes, air-filter replacements, and spark plug checks can contribute significantly to better fuel efficiency.

6. Use AC Wisely

While it’s tough to resist the allure of air conditioning in the scorching summer heat, AC can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%. If you’re driving at low speeds, consider using the car’s ventilation system or rolling down the windows instead. Once the interior cools down or if you're cruising on the highway, you can switch on the AC, ideally in a low or auto setting.

Implementing these fuel-saving tips can help your summer adventures in your Volkswagen be more economical and environmentally friendly. They might seem minor, but the cumulative effect over time can lead to significant savings and reduced emissions, making your summer trips even more satisfying.