Increased gasoline consumption often becomes an unpleasant surprise for car owners: the driving style remains the same, the operating conditions do not change, and the numbers at the gas station gradually increase. This situation almost always indicates deviations in the operation of the car. Increased fuel consumption does not occur without a reason - it is a consequence of internal processes that have ceased to comply with the norm.
As a rule, the problem develops imperceptibly. The difference initially seems insignificant, so it is ignored. However, over time, the additional costs for fuel become noticeable, and then the owner pays attention to what is happening.
The principle of engine operation underlies everything. The electronic system calculates the amount of fuel supply, based on sensor signals and the condition of mechanical components. If at least one element starts to function incorrectly, the calculation is disrupted, and an excessive amount of gasoline enters the cylinders.
The scenario usually develops gradually. At first, the overspending is only 1–2 liters. Then, due to the incorrect operation of the system, the load on the engine itself increases, as well as on the exhaust elements and the catalyst. At this stage, the problem already affects not only the wallet, but also the resource of the units.
A typical situation looks like this: a car arrives for diagnostics with a complaint of increased fuel consumption. The electronic system does not record errors, but a detailed check reveals a dirty air filter, worn spark plugs and incorrect sensor readings. Each of these factors individually may seem insignificant, but their combination creates a serious overspending.
The causes of excessive gasoline consumption are well known to specialists. A lack of air due to a dirty filter forces the system to increase fuel supply. Worn spark plugs and faulty ignition coils lead to incomplete combustion of the mixture. Engine sensors — including the lambda probe, mass air flow sensor, and temperature sensor — distort the accuracy of calculations when readings are distorted. Worn injectors can supply excess fuel. A clogged catalytic converter makes normal exhaust difficult, which also affects engine operation. Even tire pressure plays a role: under-inflation by only 0.5 bar can increase consumption by 5–10%. Finally, an aggressive driving style with sharp accelerations and frequent revving directly increases fuel consumption.
The main mistake is that the absence of obvious malfunctions and warning signals is perceived as a sign of good condition. However, gasoline overspending almost never appears "by itself." If a car starts to require more fuel than usual, it is wise to start with diagnostics. This allows not only to return consumption to normal values, but also to prevent more serious breakdowns in the future.