How to Improve Gas Mileage of a Ford Explorer

Expensive gas causes driver's to contemplate improving their vehicle's mileage. The Ford Explorer is an SUV introduced in 1991 to take the place of the Ford Bronco. According to Fuel Economy.gov, the Explorer gets about 13 to 14 miles per gallon in the city and 18 to 19 on the highway depending on the model. With simple changes to your driving style and vehicle maintenance, you can increase your Explorer's mileage.

Change your driving style. Accelerating slower and using your brakes less is the best way to improve gas mileage. Rather than accelerating and breaking hard at a stop light, anticipate the stop in advance and take your foot off the gas pedal to slow to a stop. Slowly press down on the gas pedal to accelerate. When driving on the freeway, use the cruise control on 60 to 70 mph.

Stay current on all required maintenance. Always change your oil on time and make sure other fluids are at the necessary level. Ford has a Fuel Saver Package at their dealership that includes an oil and filter change, top off for all fluids, tire air pressure check, tire rotation, brake system check and hose check.

Remove excess weight from your Explorer. Although the Explorer is a rugged SUV, you should remove extra weight from the inside and sport equipment racks from the roof of the vehicle. Racks on top of the Explorer make the vehicle less aerodynamic. Extra weight makes the engine work harder to propel an already large SUV.

Avoid driving during rush hour when traffic is slow. During rush hour, cars have to idle on the freeway and engage in a stop-and-go driving style. This type of driving reduces mileage, because it is similar to city driving and the Explorer is using gas but not traveling far.