How to Improve Gas Mileage in a Chevrolet Blazer
by John Smith
The Chevrolet Blazer is a popular sports utility vehicle. Like most SUVs, it is not exactly great on gas mileage. In an age of rising and fluctuating gas prices, any steps you can take to improve gas mileage are a good idea. The easiest way to improve gas mileage is to use some common sense when operating your vehicle. Another method is to upgrade various components of your Chevrolet Blazer.
Step 1
Use your four-wheel drive and air conditioner only when necessary. Both four-wheel drive and air conditioning decrease your gas mileage by drawing power from your engine. The engine compensates by burning more fuel.
Step 2
Replace your original equipment with a performance-enhanced exhaust system. These systems have wider and straighter pipes that improve exhaust flow. Better exhaust flow results in improved gas mileage.
Step 3
Place an upgraded air filter in your Blazer. These air filters cost about twice as much as a regular air filter, but they are designed to last the lifetime of the car. They also improve gas mileage because they don't become nearly as clogged.
Step 4
Purchase new tires that have radial designs that improve gas mileage by reducing rolling resistance. Check the tires or the tire manufacturer's specifications for the correct tire pressure. Check your tires on a consistent basis to make sure they have the correct pressure.
Step 5
Install a new and improved air intake kit to replace your old air box and filter. These kits allow air to flow into the engine faster and provide better gas mileage than stock air boxes.
Step 6
Tune up your Chevy Blazer and have the oil changed when required. A Chevy Blazer should be tuned up every 60,000 to 100,000 miles, depending on the age of the vehicle. Older Blazers need to be tuned up more often. A Chevy Blazer should have its oil changed every 3,000 miles.
Step 7
Remove as much weight as you can from your Blazer. Don't carry around unnecessary items. Only use luggage and bike racks when necessary.
Step 8
Improve your driving habits. Obey the speed limits. Don't rev up the engine. Avoid sudden starts and stops. Use a GPS system so you do not get lost. Combine your errands to reduce mileage on your Blazer. Avoid driving during rush hour, if practical.
References
Things You'll Need
- Exhaust system
- Air filter
- Tires
- Air intake kit
- GPS system
Writer Bio
John Smith is a writer with over 30 years experience. He has worked at a newspaper, various magazines and websites, and he has interests in a wide range of subjects including sports, politics and entertainment. Smith earned a bachelor's degree in history from the College of New Jersey.
