How to Improve Car Fuel Efficiency During Winter
Posted on March 18, 2025
Canadian winters are tough—not just on people but on vehicles, too. According to Natural Resources Canada, a drop in temperature from 24°C to 7°C can increase fuel consumption by up to 12%.
Combine this with increased idling, denser cold air, and lower tire pressure, and drivers find themselves facing higher fuel costs during an already costly season.
The good news? Whether you’re driving an SUV, sedan, or one of the best fuel-efficient winter cars, there are simple yet effective steps to combat these challenges. From maintaining proper tire pressure to reducing idling and planning your trips strategically, you can improve gas mileage without compromising safety or comfort.
In this guide, we’ll explore proven tips to help you maximize winter fuel efficiency and save money at the pump. Let’s get started!
1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure
Keeping your tires properly inflated is key to improving fuel efficiency in winter. Cold weather causes tire pressure to drop since air contracts in lower temperatures. When tires are underinflated, they create more rolling resistance, meaning your car needs more fuel to move.
To avoid wasting gas, check your tire pressure regularly and inflate your tires to the recommended levels. You can usually find the ideal pressure in your car's manual or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
For even better results, pair this with fuel-efficient winter tires, which are specifically designed to enhance traction and reduce rolling resistance.
Maintaining the right tire pressure not only saves fuel but also improves traction, making winter driving safer and more efficient.
2. Avoid Excessive Idling
Excessive idling during winter can waste fuel and hurt your car's efficiency. While it's tempting to let your car run to warm it up, modern vehicles with fuel injectors don’t need extended idling to get going. The best way to warm up your car is to start driving gently after about 30 seconds.
To minimize idling, consider these tips:
- Park Smart: If possible, park your car in a garage, underground parking, or any sheltered area to keep it warmer and reduce the need for idling.
- Dress Warm: Bundle up with layers so you can tolerate a cooler cabin while your car heats up as you drive. This reduces idle time and saves fuel.
- Use Built-in Features: Turn on your defrost tools right away to clear windows for safe visibility without waiting for the cabin to warm.
- Preheat with Plug-ins: If you drive a hybrid or electric vehicle, preheat the cabin while it’s plugged in. This preserves battery range and reduces fuel consumption.
By cutting down on idling, you’ll not only save gas but also protect your engine from unnecessary wear during winter.
3. Park in the Garage if Possible
If you have access to a garage, take advantage of it during the winter! Parking indoors keeps your car slightly warmer than leaving it outside in the cold. This helps your engine reach its fuel-efficient temperature faster, meaning less time idling and less fuel wasted.
Another perk of parking in the garage is avoiding frost and ice buildup on your windows. This reduces the need for defrosting features, which can strain your car’s fuel efficiency. By simply parking in a sheltered spot, you can save fuel, protect your vehicle, and make your winter mornings easier.
4. Monitor Your Driving Speed
Your driving speed plays a big role in fuel efficiency, especially in winter. Staying within the speed limit and avoiding rapid acceleration can help you conserve gas. Once you exceed 50–80 kilometers per hour, your vehicle’s fuel efficiency starts to drop noticeably, so keeping your speed steady is key.
To maximize savings, use your cruise control on highways whenever possible. It maintains a consistent speed, reducing the need for frequent acceleration and braking, which are the biggest gas guzzlers.
Combine this with gradual acceleration and gentle braking for even better results. By driving smarter, you can keep your winter fuel costs in check while enjoying a smoother ride.
5. Plan Your Trips Strategically
Efficient trip planning is an underrated way to boost winter fuel efficiency. Combining errands into a single trip helps your engine stay warm and run more efficiently, reducing the number of cold starts that use extra fuel.
- Avoid Rush Hours: Driving during off-peak times minimizes stop-and-go traffic, which consumes more fuel.
- Use Navigation Tools: Apps with real-time traffic updates can help you find faster, fuel-saving routes.
- Start with Nearby Stops: Begin with closer destinations to give your engine time to warm up fully before heading farther away.
Planning your trips strategically not only saves fuel but also reduces wear and tear on your car, helping it perform better throughout winter.
Other Tips for Improving Winter Fuel Economy Drivers Should Know
Maximizing fuel efficiency in winter isn’t just about driving habits—it’s also about smart preparation and small adjustments. Here are some additional tips to help you save fuel during the colder months:
1. Use the Right Oil
Check your vehicle's manual to see if it specifies a type of oil for cold weather. Using the recommended oil can help your engine run more efficiently in low temperatures.
2. Limit Accessories Usage
Turn off defrosters, seat warmers, and other energy-draining systems as soon as they’re no longer needed. These accessories put extra strain on your engine, leading to higher fuel usage.
3. Clear Snow and Ice
Remove as much snow and ice as possible from your vehicle before driving. Excess weight and wind drag from snow-covered surfaces can hurt your fuel economy.
These simple adjustments can go a long way in cutting fuel costs while keeping your car running smoothly all winter long.
Drive Smarter This Winter with CarHub
Winter driving doesn’t have to drain your wallet. By adopting fuel-saving habits, maintaining your vehicle properly, and considering upgrades like fuel-efficient winter tires, you can keep your fuel costs down and enjoy a smoother, safer ride all season long.
Looking for expert advice or the perfect car to tackle winter roads? At CarHub, we offer a wide selection of fuel-efficient vehicles and winter-ready upgrades tailored to your needs. Plus, our friendly team is here to help with everything from maintenance tips to finding the best fuel-efficient winter cars for your lifestyle.
Ready to stay ahead this winter? Explore the latest automotive trends, car care tips, and vehicle options on the CarHub Blog or visit us in-store to see how we can help you make the most of winter driving. Stay safe, save fuel, and drive with confidence—CarHub is here to keep you moving!