Car Mileage & Fuel Efficiency Calculator
Understanding Car Mileage and Fuel Economy
Calculating your car's mileage is one of the most effective ways to monitor its health and manage your transportation budget. Whether you call it MPG (Miles Per Gallon) or L/100km, understanding fuel efficiency helps you determine how much it truly costs to get from point A to point B.
How to Use the Car Mileage Calculator
To get an accurate reading of your vehicle's performance, follow these simple steps:
- Track Distance: Note your odometer reading or reset your trip meter when you fill up your tank. At your next fill-up, record the total distance traveled.
- Record Fuel: Look at the fuel pump receipt to see exactly how many gallons (or liters) were added to the tank to fill it back up.
- Input Price: Adding the price per unit allows the calculator to show you your cost per mile and total expenditure.
The Math Behind Fuel Efficiency
The formula for calculating fuel efficiency is straightforward. If you are using miles and gallons, the formula is:
For example, if you drove 300 miles and used 10 gallons of gas, your mileage is 30 MPG. If fuel costs $3.50 per gallon, your total cost was $35.00, making your cost per mile $0.116.
Real-World Mileage Examples
| Vehicle Category | Typical MPG | Cost per 100 Miles ($3.50/gal) |
|---|---|---|
| Hybrid Sedan | 50 MPG | $7.00 |
| Compact Car | 32 MPG | $10.94 |
| Mid-size SUV | 22 MPG | $15.91 |
| Large Pickup Truck | 16 MPG | $21.88 |
Tips to Improve Your Car's Mileage
If your calculation shows a lower mileage than what the manufacturer advertised, consider these factors:
- Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance and can lower fuel economy by up to 3%.
- Driving Habits: Rapid acceleration and hard braking waste fuel. Smooth driving can improve efficiency significantly.
- Weight: Every extra 100 pounds in your vehicle can reduce your MPG by about 1%.
- Maintenance: Using the recommended grade of motor oil and keeping the engine tuned can improve mileage by 4% to 40% depending on the repair.