How To Fix High Ford Fuel Consumption

If you’ve noticed that your Ford vehicle is burning through gas faster than usual, you’re not alone. High fuel consumption is a common concern among car owners and can point to a variety of underlying issues. Whether you drive a Ford F-150, Escape, Explorer, or Mustang, understanding what causes increased fuel usage and how to address it can save you money at the pump and extend the life of your vehicle.

Here’s a breakdown of what might be causing high fuel consumption in your Ford—and what you can do to fix it.

  1. Check Your Tire Pressure

Low tire pressure is one of the easiest-to-fix causes of high fuel consumption. Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder to move the vehicle—burning more fuel in the process.

What to do:

  • Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire.
  • Inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI (found on the driver’s side door sticker).
  • Check tire pressure monthly, especially during seasonal temperature changes.
  1. Replace a Dirty Air Filter

Your engine needs clean air to burn fuel efficiently. A clogged or dirty air filter restricts airflow, forcing your vehicle to compensate by using more fuel.

Solution:

  • Inspect your air filter for dirt and debris.
  • Replace it according to your maintenance schedule (usually every 15,000–30,000 miles).
  • Consider upgrading to a high-efficiency filter if you drive in dusty environments.
  1. Pay Attention to Driving Habits

Aggressive driving—such as rapid acceleration, speeding, and harsh braking—can significantly impact your Ford’s fuel efficiency.

Tips to improve efficiency:

  • Accelerate gradually and coast when possible.
  • Use cruise control on the highway to maintain a steady speed.
  • Avoid idling for long periods.
  1. Inspect the Fuel System

Issues within your fuel system—like a dirty fuel injector or faulty oxygen sensor—can cause your Ford to run rich, using more gas than necessary.

What to check:

  • Fuel injectors: If clogged, they won’t deliver fuel efficiently.
  • O2 sensors: A bad oxygen sensor can mislead the engine computer, affecting the air-fuel mix.
  • Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor: If dirty or malfunctioning, it can skew fuel calculations.

In most cases, diagnosing fuel system issues requires professional diagnostic tools, so it’s a good idea to have a technician take a look.

  1. Keep Up With Routine Maintenance

Neglecting oil changes, skipping tune-ups, or using the wrong grade of motor oil can all contribute to poor fuel economy. Routine servicing ensures your Ford runs smoothly and efficiently.

Maintenance tips:

  • Use the oil grade recommended in your owner’s manual.
  • Replace spark plugs and ignition components as needed.
  • Follow your vehicle’s scheduled maintenance plan.
  1. Remove Excess Weight and Drag

Carrying around unnecessary items in your trunk or using roof racks can increase fuel consumption. The more weight your car carries, the more fuel it needs to move.

What to do:

  • Remove heavy gear when it’s not needed.
  • Take off roof cargo boxes when not in use.
  • Avoid towing when it’s unnecessary.

When To Seek Professional Help

While you can address many of these issues on your own, some problems—like sensor failures or internal engine inefficiencies—require a trained eye. If you’ve tried the basics and are still experiencing high fuel consumption, it’s time to bring your vehicle in for a thorough inspection.

At Fairway Ford of Canfield, our certified technicians are here to help diagnose and resolve the root causes of excessive fuel usage in your Ford. We use advanced diagnostic tools and genuine Ford parts to restore your vehicle’s performance and economy. Whether it’s a simple tune-up or a more in-depth repair, we’ve got you covered.

And if you’re considering upgrading to a more fuel-efficient model, we invite you to explore our wide inventory of new and pre-owned Ford vehicles. Whether you’re interested in a hybrid, electric, or gas-powered model, we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.

Stop by Fairway Ford of Canfield for expert service and advice tailored to your vehicle and driving needs.