If you noticed that your pickup truck doesn’t go as far as it used on a full tank of gas, it’s likely time to schedule a maintenance check with an authorized or reputable service center. Keep in mind that the U.S. Department of Energy notes that “tuning a neglected vehicle or fixing one that failed an emissions test can increase fuel efficiency by an average of 4%.” While a basic engine tune-up can be a DIY project, it’s important that you don’t neglect regular professional servicing.
A service technician can perform a comprehensive evaluation of your pickup truck and spot issues, like clogged air filters, fuel leaks, and pressure leakages, which might be causing your vehicle to consume more gas. Typically, the truck’s owner’s manual will tell you how often you need to take it for servicing. You’re likely to see two types of service intervals in the manual: one for regular usage and another for off-road usage. The intervals are much shorter if you use your vehicle for off-road driving, so be sure to check and schedule your maintenance appointments accordingly.
While a service technician will evaluate your vehicle’s condition and resolve any major issues, it’s also important that you self-monitor its performance and be mindful of the type of gas, oil, and filters used to avoid experiencing increased fuel consumption between service appointments. Additionally, if you have a newer pickup truck, check for software upgrades that may be available. A timely software update may help improve your pickup truck’s performance and, in turn, its fuel efficiency.
