Depending on the type of vehicle, if it is equipped with a 2.4 liter engine chances are it achieves respectable gas mileage. Of course, if you have a truck or larger automobile, the fuel efficiency of the 2.4 will be reduced. This is simply due to the size of the vehicle and the power necessary to move it down the road. By the same token, a smaller vehicle will manage better fuel economy. Regardless of the size of the vehicle, there are clear steps you, as the driver, can take to improve the gas mileage of your 2.4.
Take your vehicle for regular tune-ups, at least once a year. A professional mechanic will be able to identify any problems with your 2.4 liter engine and fix them (See Ref. 1). You also need to change your engine oil every 3,000 to 5,000 miles. When you change the oil, try using a synthetic oil, as it will decrease friction and allow your 2.4 to run more efficiently. Your maintenance regimen should also include checking the air filter and ensuring that your tires are fully inflated.
Reduce the burden on your 2.4 by decreasing the amount of weight it has to move. Basically, this entails removing unnecessary weight from the vehicle. If you have aftermarket accessories, uninstall them. If you're carrying cargo, take it out before beginning a trip. Just 100 pounds of unnecessary weight can lower your fuel economy by 2 percent (See Ref. 2).
Limit your speed. At higher speeds, your 2.4 liter engine must provide extra power to propel the vehicle forward against increased air resistance. Try to keep your speeds below 60 mph whenever feasible. Whenever you increase your speed beyond 60 mph, you begin to lose miles per gallon (See Ref. 3). In case you can't help yourself, use cruise control when driving on the highway to keep a cap on your speeding.
Do not allow your 2.4 liter engine to idle for more than a few minutes at a time. For example, if you find yourself stuck in line at the drive-thru of a fast food restaurant, turn off your vehicle while you wait.
Accelerate slowly and come to a stop gradually. Not only will this save other mechanical components of your vehicle from heavy wear and tear, you'll increase the fuel efficiency of your 2.4 liter engine.
Avoid simple fixes like gasoline additives. According to the Federal Trade Commission, additive mixtures and gas-saving devices offer very little, if any, benefit (See Ref 2). Maintaining your vehicle and changing wasteful driving habits provides more noticeable gas-saving benefits.
