Back

How to Get the Best Fuel Economy in a Semi-Truck

Apr. 2 2020 Lifestyle By ___

Share

Maximizing your semi-truck's fuel economy helps you save money on every trip you take. We've gathered up a range of tips to help you extend the time in-between gas station visits.

If you want more advice or want to shop semi-trucks for sale, visit DeBary Truck Sales. Our dealership is based in Sanford, Florida, and we also serve those in Atlanta, Georgia.

Inspect Your Semi-Truck

There are plenty of maintenance issues that will result in decreased fuel economy. Regularly checking your semi-truck helps you catch these problems so you can address them and restore your fuel economy to its standard level. 

Check the Tires

Underinflated tires hurt fuel economy. Use a tire pressure gauge to measure the air levels, then compare this reading to the manufacturer's recommendations. It's best to measure cold tires, which will give you the most accurate reading.

Check Tire Alignment

When tires are even slightly misaligned, the semi-truck will veer to one side and need you to continually correct it. This practice hurts fuel economy, so be sure your tires are correctly aligned.

Check the Engine Fan

The fan runs anytime the engine is on, but it will run more frequently if it has an issue. The more the fan runs, the more horsepower the vehicle uses and the more fuel economy is hurt. Check the health of your engine fan to prevent this.

Check the Battery Cables

If battery cables get corroded, the alternator must work harder and the fuel economy is reduced. Anytime you get an engine check-up, glance over the cables to ensure they are in good condition.

Upgrade Your Semi-Truck

There are plenty of add-ons that improve aerodynamics and fuel efficiency. Some common upgrades include deep angled bumpers, trailer skirts, and tractor side fairings. A little upfront investment can save you in fuel costs in the long run.

Pack Your Semi-Truck Strategically

How you load up your semi-truck plays a role. The more weight you add, the more effort it takes to move the vehicle and the more fuel you burn. Avoid packing unnecessary items that slow you down. You'll also want to keep the load level. When you evenly distribute the load, the vehicle needs less effort and fuel to move.

Build a Strategic Route

When you craft your driving route, keep fuel efficiency in mind.

Keep Your Route Short

Try to build the shortest route possible. Driving less means burning less fuel.

Find the Best Gas Stations

Try to fuel up at the gas stations with lower prices. Use a trucking-specific GPS or a phone app to find the most cost-effective gas stations on your route.

Reduce Stops

The more stops you take, the more your fuel efficiency is reduced. Try to combine stops when you can. When you plan to stop for gas, take the opportunity to use the bathroom, purchase snacks, stretch your legs, and try to reduce the need to stop again in a little bit.

Drive Your Semi-Truck Strategically

How you drive your semi-truck will affect your fuel efficiency. Use the following tactics to keep your fuel efficiency high:

  • Don't speed since going faster burns more fuel.

  • Minimize idling, which burns up fuel.

  • Reduce breaking. Each time you slow down, your rig needs more fuel to return to the previous speed. Leave plenty of space between you and other motorists to reduce braking.

  • Drive in the highest gear you can. Driving at a faster rate in a lower gear consumes more fuel.

  • Minimize air conditioning and try to use an open window as much as you can.

  • Use cruise control, which reduces unnecessary acceleration and deceleration.

We hope you found these tips useful! If you need to get your semi-truck serviced, bring it to the experts at DeBary Truck Sales. We also sell a range of semi-trucks if you are looking to buy. Whatever you need, you'll find with us! We are located in Sanford, FL, and also serve those in Atlanta, GA.