Posted on 10/31/2025
Fuel economy usually stays fairly steady unless something changes. So when you notice you're visiting the gas station more often than usual, and your driving routine hasn’t changed, that’s a sign your car might need attention. A sudden drop in MPG is more than just a budget concern. It’s often your car’s way of letting you know something’s not working as it should. Let’s take a closer look at what could be behind that fuel efficiency loss and what you can do about it. When MPG Starts Dropping Without Warning Sometimes the first clue is just a feeling. The tank doesn’t seem to last as long. The fuel gauge dips faster. If your vehicle has a trip computer, you might notice that the average MPG number has dropped by several points. Here are some other signs that often come along with it: Engine feels sluggish or rough Fuel smell near the vehicle after shutting it off Engine light is on Acceleration takes more effort Ro ... read more