tips for fuel economy

[Ragdude]

Just a note; not all left foot brakers are idiots, I mean I’m sure lots of them probably are, with the number of idiots in the world in general lol, but I know from my work operating equipment you OFTEN need to use both feet (one on each pedal, the machines are made for this) for better and smoother control, and I can see how some people might end up making that a habit in their personal vehicle. I personally don’t do this unless the situation calls for it (like rocking the vehicle back and forth to get unstuck, things like that) and then only in vehicles with two pedals (naturally your left is busy with the clutch in cars with manual trans).

Ok my apologies to the .001% who fall into that catagory

 

[AndyBees]

AHU works the same. Using TDeanI's example:

he loses 1/4 mile of coasting by leaving it in gear. Coasting in neutral during that extra 1/4mile costs him about 0.12gal/hour * 0.0042hour, or 0.0005gal. Coasting in 5th saves him 0.0005gal, but costs him much more than that to regain his original speed.

We all have a regular routine with our drives, including basically the same routes to work, grocery, hardware store, etc. I learned that there are places along those routes where it is best to coast in gear vs in neutral. I live out in the county 17 miles from town. On the route into town there is a section of highway with a 2.5 mile up hill grade and just over 4 miles down hill on the other side. It is not safe in either direction to coast in neutral due to the curves. I drove that section of highway for over 33 years in my career commuting to work. Then, a major road rebuild and alignment resulted in a nice long stretch on both sides that can be negotiated in neutral in both directions. But, I prefer just coasting in gear and practice that method as a way to slow the vehicle before a stop sign, traffic light, a need to merge in some circumstances, negotiating curves, etc.

 

[TDeanI]

I can tell you that my coasting technique is worth 5 mpg for my car on my daily commute. I do not coast below the speed limit. I coast down to the speed limit or just under it. With my taller gear it makes it harder to accelerate at 50 mph in 5th and I waste fuel building boost or shifting to 4th. There are plenty of hills where I can maintain speed in neutral or accelerate. I put it back into gear or let out the clutch slowly when down to the speed limit.
On my 35 mile trip to work, I added up all my coasts and it was an easy 5 miles of total coasting if I add up all the big and medium coasts in 35 miles. Lots of hills but only a few steep ones where I need to brake. I have two coasts i can coast for over a mile. In gear, the same coasts are less than 1/4 mile. My coast in gear are only around 100 mpg on my Scan Gauge. My coast in nuetral are 360-450 mpg.

On days that I am late and just follow the car in front of me driving normal and leaving it in gear, I get maybe 47 mpg for the same trip. At the same speed I get 52-56 mpg same trip with coasting. Five miles of coasting while getting 400 mpg saves fuel.

My car has substantial aero mods so I can coast farther than stock vehicles.

 

[Lightflyer1]

Coasts in gear should turn off all fuel feed in my understanding. Should be infinite when coasting in gear.

 

[AndyBees]

Coasts in gear should turn off all fuel feed in my understanding. Should be infinite when coasting in gear.

Yeah, the Scan Gauge in my Jetta's go to flat line coasting in gear, indicating fuel totally turned off. The Gasser Engine in my 2011 VW Tiguan will show the same on the in-dash indicator. And, even though it it is a 6-speed automatic, coasting in gear when and where I can does improve them MPGs. Rather than MPGs with my Jetta vs the Tiguan, I look at cost of fuel per mile to drive them. In recent years, there's been little difference the TDI wins out!

Back in the day, that long 4+ miles of down hill coast I mentioned above, would result in the Temp Gauge dropping noticeably on a very cold morning on the way to work. So, that is solid proof the fuel is shut-off during coasting in gear.

 

[turbodieseldyke]

On my 35 mile trip to work, I added up all my coasts and it was an easy 5 miles of total coasting if I add up all the big and medium coasts in 35 miles.

When i used to drive up the Grapevine every week (I-5, south of Bakersfield), I used a stopwatch to track my bursts of In-Gear-Foot-On-Gas-Pedal time during the Neutral coasting. From the summit (4144ft), i could make it 20 miles with 90 seconds of Pedal-Time. I'd guess the final elevation petered out around 500ft.

 

[Felly123]

I can tell you that my coasting technique is worth 5 mpg for my car on my daily commute. I do not coast below the speed limit. I coast down to the speed limit or just under it. With my taller gear it makes it harder to accelerate at 50 mph in 5th and I waste fuel building boost or shifting to 4th. There are plenty of hills where I can maintain speed in neutral or accelerate. I put it back into gear or let out the clutch slowly when down to the speed limit.
On my 35 mile trip to work, I added up all my coasts and it was an easy 5 miles of total coasting if I add up all the big and medium coasts in 35 miles. Lots of hills but only a few steep ones where I need to brake. I have two coasts i can coast for over a mile. In gear, the same coasts are less than 1/4 mile. My coast in gear are only around 100 mpg on my Scan Gauge. My coast in nuetral are 360-450 mpg.

On days that I am late and just follow the car in front of me driving normal and leaving it in gear, I get maybe 47 mpg for the same trip. At the same speed I get 52-56 mpg same trip with coasting. Five miles of coasting while getting 400 mpg saves fuel.

My car has substantial aero mods so I can coast farther than stock vehicles.

Hello TDeanl, Where did you get your Scan Gauge? just what I looking for fo my 97. Thanks PS Just put a bigger 5th gear in last week.

 

[J_dude]

Hello TDeanl, Where did you get your Scan Gauge? just what I looking for fo my 97. Thanks PS Just put a bigger 5th gear in last week.

I got mine on amazon

 

[AndyBees]

ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3 In1 Automotive Computer for sale online | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3 In1 Automotive Computer at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

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[Felly123]

I got mine on amazon

I don't want to be any trouble, but what Brand and or Make is it?

 

[Felly123]

ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3 In1 Automotive Computer for sale online | eBay

Find many great new & used options and get the best deals for ScanGauge II Ultra Compact 3 In1 Automotive Computer at the best online prices at eBay! Free shipping for many products!

www.ebay.com

https://www.amazon.com/ScanGauge-SGIIFFP-Automotive-Customizable-Frustration/dp/B00VX2NOK2/ref=asc_df_B00VX2NOK2/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312540934012&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=16051401268011279350&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9014330&hvtargid=pla-569356064528&th=1

Never mind, I see where you linked it. Just ordered it. Cheers

 

[Don77]

Hi Guys,
Thanks for the tips I've read here till now.
My best MPG beside steady 80km/h (testing several times on appr. 250km long trips) is 3,1L/100km.
OK I know it is good but I would improve it somehow.

I have tried to search for modified camshaft but as I see there isn't.
I mean ECO camshaft. If there is camshafts (eg. SDI version) for bigger power is there a version for better MPG?
Or is SDI camshaft can be used for better MPG with reprogramming the ECU?
Thanks inadvance for the answers.

 

[Lightflyer1]

Better mpg can be had with your foot by driving with economy. It is the most beneficial way to do this. You can add hardware but it will never pay for itself by the economy savings. Generally we look at tank to tank full fillups when discussing these kind of things. Not a few short runs.

 

[Don77]

Better mpg can be had with your foot by driving with economy. It is the most beneficial way to do this. You can add hardware but it will never pay for itself by the economy savings. Generally we look at tank to tank full fillups when discussing these kind of things. Not a few short runs.

Thanks for your reply.
I can confirm it, that the most effective 'mod' is a lighter right foot + other eco-drivingstyles.
However I'm seeking for additional and additional solutions... ;-)

 

[AndyBees]

Thanks for your reply.
I can confirm it, that the most effective 'mod' is a lighter right foot + other eco-drivingstyles.
However I'm seeking for additional and additional solutions... ;-)

Don, I drove my 2000 Jetta TDI 5-speed weekends, commute to work and on the job. It had 335k miles on it when I gave it to my son in 2013.
I drove conservatively (speed limit) and took advantage of "coasting" in gear. The ECU shuts-down the fuel to zero injection when coasting in gear down to about 1000 RPMs. A good example is knowing where the Stop Signs are, the traffic lights and down hills are in your route. Use the coasting in gear method when you approach them.

I did an Excel Spreadsheet during those 335k miles. I entered practically everything from fuel to windshield washer fluid.
It averaged slightly over 51 MPG. Now at 390k miles, my son (who drives it different that I did) says he gets 48-49 MPGs. The engine is bone stock and no tune. I was driving 36k miles per year when I retired in 2008. I changed the oil every 10k miles and the fuel filter in late fall just before going into the winter months...... never a fuel issue. Oh, and the stock air box/filter is better than anything you can replace it with.

But, I'd say the best mod you could do is a Tune. A Stage 1 tune is all the stock ALH needs. I got a Stage 1 tune for the '02 ALH engine in my 84 Vanagon. The Tune made a big difference in power and hasn't hurt the MPGs as long as I drive it sensibly.

 

[Don77]

Don, I drove my 2000 Jetta TDI 5-speed weekends, commute to work and on the job. It had 335k miles on it when I gave it to my son in 2013.
I drove conservatively (speed limit) and took advantage of "coasting" in gear.
...
But, I'd say the best mod you could do is a Tune. A Stage 1 tune is all the stock ALH needs. I got a Stage 1 tune for the '02 ALH engine in my 84 Vanagon. The Tune made a big difference in power and hasn't hurt the MPGs as long as I drive it sensibly.

Many thanks for your detailed answer.
Yes, tune. I bought my 300K km Toledo almost 1,5 years before and it was tuned before the purchase. It is like a race car but I only use it during overtakings.
Yeap, maybe it would worth a remap' for eco and not (only) for power.
Thanks

 

[MrMorizoFan]

didn't read the thread completely trough but have changed to 6% taller tires so it helps in gearing. the benefit is dependant on what kind of gearing car has but at least with A2 1.4 TDI I feel it helps in road driving to have little higher gears. in city there is not so big benefit.
Also putting on lighter wheels and tires help in the city.

now running with 195/65/15 - it is wide and big for the car but as I like a comfortable ride with higher ground clearance don't want to get too low and small.

 

[rocky raccoon]

ride home for helga
amidst dark night
it rains
mfa shows low mpg

and Haiku to you too.

 

[polo.blue]

Hey everyone,

I wanted to share some tips on how to reduce fuel consumption for our TDI vehicles. These strategies can help us get the most out of each tank and save some money in the long run:

1. Regular Maintenance: Keep your engine in top shape with regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil, replacing air filters, and ensuring that fuel injectors are clean. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.
2. Proper Tire Pressure: Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which can increase fuel consumption.
3. Smooth Driving: Avoid aggressive driving. Rapid acceleration and braking consume more fuel. Try to drive smoothly and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.
4. Use Cruise Control: On highways, use cruise control to maintain a steady speed. This can help improve fuel efficiency.
5. Reduce Weight: Remove unnecessary weight from your car. Extra weight requires more power and fuel to move.
6. Limit Idle Time: Turn off the engine if you're going to be idling for more than a minute or two. Idling consumes fuel without moving you anywhere.
7. Plan Your Trips: Combine errands into one trip rather than making multiple short trips. Cold starts consume more fuel, so fewer starts mean better efficiency.
8. Air Conditioning: Use the air conditioning sparingly. It puts an extra load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. When driving at lower speeds, consider opening the windows instead.
9. Fuel Quality: Use high-quality fuel and additives if necessary. Poor quality fuel can affect engine performance and efficiency.
10. Aerodynamics: Remove roof racks or carriers when not in use. They create additional drag, which can reduce fuel efficiency.

By following these tips, we can all enjoy better fuel economy and save some money at the pump. Do you have any other tips or experiences to share? Let's discuss!

Safe driving ;-)

 

[AndyBees]

Polo.blue, I agree with your suggestions 100% .....

Your tips are excellent advice. Thanks for putting them together.

 

[privateTDIjet]

Hey everyone,

I wanted to share some tips on how to reduce fuel consumption for our TDI vehicles. These strategies can help us get the most out of each tank and save some money in the long run:

1. Regular Maintenance: Keep your engine in top shape with regular maintenance. This includes changing the oil, replacing air filters, and ensuring that fuel injectors are clean. A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.
2. Proper Tire Pressure: Make sure your tires are inflated to the recommended pressure. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which can increase fuel consumption.
3. Smooth Driving: Avoid aggressive driving. Rapid acceleration and braking consume more fuel. Try to drive smoothly and maintain a consistent speed whenever possible.
4. Use Cruise Control: On highways, use cruise control to maintain a steady speed. This can help improve fuel efficiency.
5. Reduce Weight: Remove unnecessary weight from your car. Extra weight requires more power and fuel to move.
6. Limit Idle Time: Turn off the engine if you're going to be idling for more than a minute or two. Idling consumes fuel without moving you anywhere.
7. Plan Your Trips: Combine errands into one trip rather than making multiple short trips. Cold starts consume more fuel, so fewer starts mean better efficiency.
8. Air Conditioning: Use the air conditioning sparingly. It puts an extra load on the engine, increasing fuel consumption. When driving at lower speeds, consider opening the windows instead.
9. Fuel Quality: Use high-quality fuel and additives if necessary. Poor quality fuel can affect engine performance and efficiency.
10. Aerodynamics: Remove roof racks or carriers when not in use. They create additional drag, which can reduce fuel efficiency.

By following these tips, we can all enjoy better fuel economy and save some money at the pump. Do you have any other tips or experiences to share? Let's discuss!

Safe driving ;-)

I can smell a chatGPT answer from miles away Guilty of the same crime too. Still very good tips.

 

[rocky raccoon]

My ordinary mileage is 45 to 48mpg. I have coaxed 52mpg out of my JSW with CJAA but it is definitely not good for it. The engine is untouched and still has the full dieselgate "fix". It runs fast and strong and I have no intention of spending a lot of money for slightly better fuel economy and marginally better performance.

 

[oldsoul]

I have a 2013 sedan, I've done two "mods" at this point, and both have shown significant MPG improvements. So, aside from driving techniques, reducing weight, and maintaining vehicle, I would suggest these two "mods":

1) DPF & EGR delete with stage .5 tune
Yeild for me was about +1MPG.

2) Oversized rubber. I did not like the look of the original 17" wheels, so I went to 16s summer. I put on 225/65R16 (around .75" taller than stock) which gives me about a +1Mpg gain. This has two added benefits:
a. Noticeably smother ride.
b. Near perfect accuracy of speedo.

As others have said though, it is unlikely that the delete will pay for itself with fuel economy gains alone. Tires though? Well, if you upsize when you need to buy tires anyways, you'll probably come out ahead. However, before you commit to a non-stock size, make sure they fit, and don't rub. On my car at least, this size works, but there is some rubbing at specific steering angles, and specific suspension compression/extention amounts. BOTH must be just so, or no rubbing, so I'm ok with it, YMMV.

 

[ezshift5]

VOA buyback provided funding to move from diesel (emissions situation) to gas.
After 4 years and 60,000 miles my JSW TDI 6M was replaced with a brand new 2017 Jetta 1.4L EA211.
The JSW calc'd slightly higher MPG - - - the EA211 odometer now reads circa 65,000 with zero issues!

Who knew?

ez