How to Improve Gas Mileage: 10 Tips for NYC Drivers

If you’re doing a lot of driving around Manhattan, fuel costs can add up quickly. Whether you are commuting on the FDR Drive, navigating the Lincoln Tunnel, or dodging traffic on local NYC streets, you might be trying to figure out how to improve gas mileage to save money at the pump.

Our Mercedes-Benz Service Center is here to help. We’ve put together this helpful guide on how to increase fuel efficiency through smarter driving habits and proper vehicle maintenance.

5 Driving Habits That Save Gas in NYC

There are simple adjustments any New York City driver can adopt immediately to improve gas mileage. By changing how you drive, you can lower your fuel consumption significantly. Here are the most effective changes to make:

• Utilize DYNAMIC SELECT: Switch your Mercedes-Benz into ECO Mode. This optimizes climate control, throttle response, and shift points to maximize efficiency.
• Stop/Start Technology: Don’t disable your ECO Start/Stop system. It is designed to save fuel while you wait at red lights in Hell’s Kitchen or Chelsea.
• Maintain a Consistent Speed: Using Cruise Control on the West Side Highway helps the engine maintain efficiency and avoids unnecessary revving.
• Accelerate Gradually: “Jackrabbit” starts and hard braking waste fuel. Imagine there is an egg under your gas pedal that you don’t want to break.
• Remove Unnecessary Cargo: Especially relevant for Mercedes-Benz GLC owners, carrying extra weight makes the engine work harder. If you aren’t hauling, clear out the cargo area or remove roof boxes to improve aerodynamics.

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How to Increase Fuel Efficiency With Regular Maintenance

There are lots of reasons to keep up with your car’s service schedule, but did you know that postponing maintenance can reduce your MPG? A poorly tuned engine works harder, burning more gas on your Brooklyn or Queens commute. Here are the top service checks to maximize your fuel economy:

• Check Tire Pressure: Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance. Keeping them inflated to the proper PSI (listed on your fuel filler door) is one of the easiest ways to improve gas mileage. Visit our Tire Center for a check-up.
• Change Air Filters: A clogged engine air filter restricts airflow, which can hurt performance. We inspect this during your Service B interval.
• Use the Right Oil: Using the wrong grade of oil increases friction. Always use Mercedes-Benz Genuine Engine Oil to keep your engine running smoothly.
• Wheel Alignment: Hitting potholes in Manhattan can knock your wheels out of alignment. If your car is fighting against the road, your fuel economy will suffer.
• Spark Plugs & Emissions: Replacing fouled spark plugs or a faulty O2 sensor can improve fuel efficiency by as much as 40%. Learn more about our emissions services.
• Brake Inspection: Ensure your brakes aren’t dragging, which creates resistance and wastes power. Schedule a brake repair inspection if you hear grinding or squeaking.

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Schedule a Fuel-Saving Service in Manhattan

Let us help keep your car running at its most efficient. Schedule an appointment with Mercedes-Benz Manhattan so we can get your vehicle up to date. You can also track your service history easily with the Mercedes-Benz App.

If you found this guide helpful, check out our customer testimonials to see why drivers across the Tri-State area trust us. Be sure to follow us on Instagram for more tips!