I try to use a mix of methods to give the most accurate reading of my miles per gallon, to maximise the fuel efficiency of my car. Firstly, I check the odometer and average MPG readout. Secondly, I monitor all the fuel that I put in my car. Lastly, I keep my driving style in check by ensuring that I maintain a style that will use the least fuel. However, after a recent service I noticed that fuel efficiency had dropped. A friend advised using Redex (click the name to find out more at the official manufacturer site) and trying an Italian tune-up.
I’ve used Redex before I wasn’t certain of the results. However, I considered that in combination with using the higher rev band of the car it might just do the trick. Now to specify, my car is a 110 VVT petrol Renault Megane. As stated, I always try to keep it as fuel efficient as possible which means using the lower part of the rev band etc. So, it was with some trepidation I added the Redex and attempted to hit the redline!
For those of you who didn’t know, an Italian tune-up involves getting the engine warm (this may take longer than you think – if in doubt speak to your local garage and also consult your vehicle manufacturer) and then keeping it in the higher part of the rev band. Opinions differ but many people suggest 500 rpm below the redline. The idea behind doing this is to get the engine warm enough to ‘blow away the cobwebs’ and remove any carbon deposits that have built up. I’m not recommending it per se, I’m just stating that it was recommended to me and I decided to follow the advice.
After doing the above, I found that the average MPG readout was showing higher than it had previously been recorded at (41.2 miles per gallon) whilst the overall fuel efficiency in terms of the amount of fuel going in to the vehicle had actually slightly increased. I can’t account for the discrepancy except to say that your vehicle average MPG readout can be wrong. When warmed up fully and after revving the car, it did seem to be happier.
At the moment, I’m going to state that the jury is out. I’m hoping that the Redex is doing what it should and that the Average MPG will continue to rise as I do a few more long journeys. What I would add is that your engine is made to occasionally be worked and taken through the rev range – diesels fitted with a DPF and taken on short runs are prone to the DPF being clogged. Use your car as it was meant to be used and hopefully it’ll look after you. I’ll report back after a couple of hundred more miles.
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