What is a common cause of poor fuel economy?

Frequent idling of the vehicle is a common cause of poor fuel economy because when an engine is idling, it continues to consume fuel without producing any useful work. When a vehicle is stationary and the engine is running, fuel is still being injected into the combustion chambers to keep the engine operating, leading to wasted energy and increased fuel consumption.

While idling may seem harmless, prolonged periods can lead to significant fuel waste over time. In environments where vehicles are often stopped, such as in heavy traffic or at drive-throughs, idling effectively reduces the overall efficiency and economy of fuel usage.

High-quality fuel can actually enhance performance and is less likely to cause fuel-related issues. Proper tire inflation helps to maintain optimal contact with the road, ensuring better fuel efficiency. Maintaining an optimal engine temperature ensures that the engine runs efficiently, allowing for complete combustion of fuel. Each of these factors contributes positively to fuel economy, making idling the most detrimental to fuel efficiency.