Introduction

Fuel efficiency is something every Subaru owner can appreciate. Whether you're driving across town every day or heading out on a road trip, a more efficient vehicle means fewer stops at the gas station and more money left in your pocket. Subarus are built with performance in mind, and with just a few tweaks to habits and vehicle care, you can get the most out of every gallon.

It’s about more than just driving less or skipping a few trips. A few adjustments can make a big difference without any major changes to your routine. Things like checking tire pressure or driving at a steady speed can lead to better performance and savings. Let’s take a closer look at what helps keep your Subaru efficient over time.

Regular Maintenance Boosts Fuel Efficiency

Fuel efficiency starts with regular upkeep. The better shape your car is in, the easier it is for it to run without overworking the engine or burning extra fuel. When maintenance is skipped or forgotten, efficiency drops.

Here are some maintenance tasks that have a real impact on how far your gas goes:

• Oil Changes: When your engine has clean oil, it works with less friction. That means it doesn’t have to work as hard, which saves fuel. Dirty oil creates more resistance inside the engine.
• Air Filter Replacements: Your engine needs clean air to burn fuel efficiently. A clogged air filter cuts down on airflow, which can make your car use more gas to get the same results.
• Tire Pressure Checks: Low tire pressure may not seem like a big deal, but it adds resistance and makes your car less fuel-friendly. Keeping your tires inflated to the correct pressure improves fuel use and keeps you safer on the road.
• Wheel Alignments: Misaligned wheels force your tires to work against each other. This uneven resistance drags down your fuel economy and causes your tires to wear out faster.

Something as simple as running with underinflated tires for a few months can really add noticeable fuel costs. Even if your car seems fine on the surface, small things can take a toll over time. Keeping up with maintenance gives your Subaru the best chance to run efficiently every day.

Improve Fuel Economy With Better Driving Habits

Even a well-maintained Subaru can burn through more fuel if the driving habits aren’t in tune with fuel savings. How you drive makes a big difference in how long your tank lasts.

Here are five easy changes that can help:

1. Accelerate Smoothly: Pushing hard on the gas pedal uses a lot more fuel than easing into speed. Try being more gradual when you take off.
2. Brake Gradually: Slamming on your brakes wastes the energy you just used to get up to speed. Give yourself more time and space to slow down.
3. Use Cruise Control: On long, flat roads or highways, cruise control can help you hold a steady pace. This steadiness leads to better fuel use.
4. Avoid Long Idling: Running your engine while parked wastes fuel. If you plan to stay stopped for more than a minute or two, consider turning it off.
5. Watch Your Speed: Going faster than necessary burns more fuel. Staying at or just under the speed limit helps stretch out your gas mileage.

Being mindful behind the wheel doesn’t mean driving like you're in a driving test. It just means being more relaxed and steady, which makes the ride better for your passengers, your wallet, and your Subaru.

Smart Fuel Choices For Your Subaru

Not all gasoline is created equal, and using the right fuel can help your Subaru perform better and stay efficient. Always check your owner's manual to find which octane level suits your vehicle's engine. Using a lower level than what’s recommended can make the engine knock or work harder, causing reduced efficiency.

Going for high-quality fuel from trusted gas stations also helps. These fuels often contain detergents that clean the inside of your engine parts. Cleaner parts mean smoother combustion and improved fuel performance.

Another tool to consider is a fuel additive. These additives are designed to break down carbon build-up inside the fuel system, like around injectors and valves. Over time, this build-up makes the engine work harder. A fuel additive can be a helpful part of your car care routine if it’s compatible with your Subaru.

Suggesting additives doesn’t mean they’re a replacement for maintenance or quality fuel. They’re one more tool to keep things working well and fuel efficiency up, especially if your vehicle is a little older or has more miles on it.

Reducing Weight And Drag For Better Fuel Economy

Carrying extra weight or adding parts that create resistance can make your Subaru burn more gas than it should. The engine has to work harder to move those extra pounds or push through extra drag.

Think about what’s in your vehicle. Are the back seat and trunk packed with gear that isn’t being used? Removing items you don’t need makes the car lighter, and every little bit helps.

Roof racks and rear spoilers might add style or storage, but they also affect how air flows around your vehicle. This extra pull from the wind means your engine has to push harder. Removing roof racks when they’re not needed can make a difference you’ll feel over time, especially at higher speeds.

Even small things like shutting your windows when driving fast on the highway can make a difference. An open window creates drag, which cuts down your fuel efficiency. When it’s hot out, it’s better to use the AC for short stretches if you’ll be going fast.

These are small changes most drivers don’t think about, but they can quietly eat into your gas mileage if ignored.

Make Every Gallon Count

There isn’t one magic fix for better fuel economy, but all these small actions add up. From keeping up with maintenance to adjusting your driving habits, every step helps your Subaru perform more efficiently and makes each gallon go further.

Choosing the right fuel and cutting down on extra weight or drag also supports long-term savings. You might not notice each tiny change right away, but together, they can stretch your fuel tank and help reduce waste.

When you get in the habit of caring for your vehicle this way, better gas mileage becomes part of your routine. That means fewer stops at the pump, a smoother ride, and a Subaru that stays in strong condition for years to come. It’s a win for your pocket and for the road ahead.

If you're looking to make every mile count, explore your options for a fuel-efficient Subaru that fits your lifestyle at Dave Wright Subaru. Discover how the right ride can deliver on both performance and savings.