Branch 1
Antwerpen / Merksem
Bredabaan 1052170 Merksem
Mon–Fri 09:00–18:30 Sat 10:00–17:00
Engine, exhaust and fluids
Car suddenly uses more fuel
Higher consumption has many possible causes, from simple things like tyre pressure and driving conditions to sensors, ignition or brakes that drag. It is worth first looking at what has changed, and then arranging a check.
Recognisable signs
What you may notice.
- You have to fill up noticeably more often with the same driving style
- Consumption went up after a certain moment, for example after a tyre change or a cold or hot spell
- The engine runs more roughly or starts less easily
- The check engine light is on, or the exhaust is smoking
- The car feels slower or pulls less well
Possible causes
What may be behind it.
These are possibilities, not a diagnosis. A technician identifies which cause fits your car after checking it.
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Tyre pressure and tyres
Soft tyres, or tyres with high rolling resistance, increase consumption. This is easy to check.
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Driving conditions and use
Short journeys with a cold engine, cold weather, extra weight, a roof box or frequent use of the air conditioning can raise consumption.
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Sensors and engine management
A faulty lambda sensor, air mass meter or temperature sensor can make the engine run too rich.
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Ignition, injection and filters
Worn spark plugs, dirty injectors or a clogged air filter can make combustion less efficient.
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Brakes that drag
A sticking caliper keeps braking lightly, which raises consumption and causes wear.
Keep driving?
Can I keep driving with this?
Yes, in most cases you can simply keep driving and plan an appointment. In the meantime check the tyre pressure and watch for other signs, such as a warning light, jerking or a smell. If you notice any of those, that is a reason to have it checked sooner.
Book an appointmentBook an appointment
At WeFix
What WeFix can check.
This is what our technicians can look at to find the cause.
- Checking tyre pressure and tyre condition
- Reading the fault memory and inspecting the sensors
- Assessing spark plugs, filters and injection
- Inspecting the brakes and wheels for dragging or sticking
If we find something, you hear it first. We only repair after your approval.
Services
Related services.
This is where WeFix Auto’s can help with this symptom.
Branches
Call or drop by.
Not sure, or is it urgent? Call the branch near you and describe what you notice.
2170 Merksem
Branch 2
Brasschaat
Bredabaan 7372930 Brasschaat
Mon–Fri 08:30–18:00 Sat 09:00–12:00
Also read
Related problems.
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Check soon
Check engine light on: what does it mean and can you keep driving?
The check engine light tells you that the car’s computer has detected a fault in the engine, the exhaust or the fuel supply. The light does not say exactly what is wrong: that takes a diagnostic read-out and a proper check. If it stays on constantly, have it looked at soon. If it flashes, extra care is needed. Read the explanation -
Check soon
Tyre pressure warning light stays on
The light tells you that the system has detected tyre pressure that is too low, or that the system itself has a fault. A tyre that is slowly going flat is one of the most common causes. Pressure that is too low affects grip, stopping distance and wear. Read the explanation -
Book an appointment
Tyres wearing unevenly
If a tyre wears more on the inside, the outside or in the middle, that says something about the cause. Pressure that is too low or too high, the position of the wheels and wear in the suspension often come into it. The sooner you spot it, the better the chance of saving the tyre. Read the explanation -
Check soon
Car jerks when accelerating
A car that jerks or hesitates when accelerating is probably not getting the right combination of air, fuel and ignition, or has a problem in the drivetrain. It can happen with a cold engine, under load or every time you press the accelerator. Read the explanation
Have your car checked.
Request a no-obligation quote or call a branch. You hear what we find first.
Please note: This explanation is general information and does not replace a technical diagnosis. The cause can only be established after your car has been checked. If you are worried about your safety, stop and ask for professional help.