How to Calculate the Mileage of a Car

What is Mileage?

Car mileage is the number of kilometres a car can travel using one litre of fuel. Understanding how to calculate car mileage is a way to assess how fuel-efficient the car is and gives insight into how the vehicle performs.
 

Your car's mileage can change based on driving conditions, how you drive, how well you keep up with maintenance, and what kind of fuel you use. Driving on the highway usually gives you better mileage than in the city because of fewer stops and starts. The condition of your car tyres and how much air is in them can also make a difference. Even the weather can affect how far the car can take you for each litre of fuel.
 

What are the factors affecting the mileage of a car?

Various factors can affect a car’s mileage and performance. The factors that affect car mileage are listed below.

Engine size

The first and most important factor affecting a car’s mileage is engine size. A larger engine capacity requires more fuel to run than a smaller engine, so it is recommended to choose a smaller engine size to get the most fuel economy.

Drag

Extra fitting can cause air drag, which can reduce fuel efficiency. Heavier loads require more fuel efficiency. Additionally, the car's aerodynamics can impact its efficiency. Cars with smooth lines tend to be more fuel-efficient than cars with boxy, sharp edges. So, if you want to increase fuel efficiency, opt for a car with good aerodynamics. 

Driving habits

Driving habits can also impact fuel efficiency. Sudden acceleration, speeding, and hard braking can affect fuel efficiency. Driving smoothly and maintaining a safe speed will help increase your car's fuel efficiency.

Maintenance

A well-maintained car will improve fuel efficiency. Regular oil change and service will help improve fuel efficiency. Additionally, check your tyre pressure regularly and inflate the tyres according to the manufacturer’s recommended level. Improperly aligned or inflated tyres and a dirty filter can also reduce fuel efficiency. So ensure to keep them clean and check them on a regular basis.

Weather condition

Sometimes an extreme weather condition can also affect the fuel efficiency of your car. As it requires the engine to exert more effort to start, the car will use more fuel, which can affect the fuel efficiency. Limit your AC usage to reduce engine load, which improves fuel economy.
 

Why is Calculating Car Mileage Important?

Calculating your car's mileage goes beyond simply playing with numbers. It's a practical way to monitor fuel consumption and catch any problems early on. Here's why it's so important:

1. Fuel efficiency monitoring: Understanding how to check the mileage of your car helps you optimise fuel consumption and adjust your driving accordingly.
 

2. Budgeting: Fuel is a crucial commodity with fluctuating prices in the Indian market. Calculating your mileage will help you plan your trips and budget for fuel costs better.
 

3. Environmental responsibility: A car with good mileage is fuel-efficient and produces lower carbon emissions, contributing to a greener and cleaner environment.
 

4. Resale value: Well-maintained cars have better mileage, and this could fetch you a better price if you plan on selling your car.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Calculate Car Mileage

Here’s how to calculate the mileage of your car using a simple method.

1. Fill up your fuel tank to full capacity. Note down the odometer reading after doing so. 
 

2. Drive your car as you would routinely. For more accurate results, try driving on both the highway and inside the city.
 

3. After driving around until your fuel tank is nearly empty, refill it. Note down how many litres of fuel have been consumed.
 

4. Check the odometer to see how many kilometres you have travelled before refuelling.
 

5. Calculate the mileage of your car with the formula given below.

 

Formula to Calculate Car Mileage

The standard mileage calculation formula is: Mileage = Distance travelled ÷ Fuel consumed

For example, if you have driven 150 kilometres and consumed 10 litres of petrol, your car's mileage would be 15 km/litre.

 

ARAI-Rated Mileage Figures vs. Real-World Mileage Figures

The Automotive Research Association of India (ARAI) provides mileage estimates for motor vehicles in controlled conditions. Nevertheless, real-world mileage can often be lower due to factors like traffic, road conditions, and individual driving habits. For example, a car that is rated to achieve 20 km/l by ARAI may only manage 15-18 km/l in everyday use.

 

This discrepancy arises because ARAI tests exclude variables such as stop-and-go traffic, frequent braking, heavy loads, and air conditioner usage—things that are common on Indian roads. These factors reduce fuel efficiency significantly.

 

ARAI figures are helpful when comparing cars and deciding which one to buy. However, it is important to understand that real-world conditions typically result in lower mileage.

 

Fuel-efficient driving techniques to increase mileage

Improving fuel efficiency of the car can save money and also reduces environmental impact. Here are some tips to maximise your driving efficiency.

Regular Maintenance

A well-maintained car will improve your fuel efficiency. Regularly changing your engine oil, replacing air filters will improve your car mileage noticeably.

Smooth Driving Habits

Gentle acceleration and soft braking will improve your car mileage. These habits improve fuel efficiency and prolong the life of your vehicle.

Air Conditioner usage

Reducing air conditioner usage will increase the car's fuel efficiency. Adjusting your AC according to weather conditions will increase your mileage.

Lighten your load

Reducing your car load will sharply increase your fuel efficiency. Remove heavy and unnecessary vehicles to improve and reduce the engine load.

Transmission

Manual transmission cars are more fuel-efficient than automatic cars. For example, a manual car is kept at the highest gear, and an automatic transmission can unnecessarily shift to a lower gear, reducing fuel efficiency.

Tips to Improve Car Mileage

Improving your car’s mileage means extending its life and utility. Here are a few tips to improve car mileage, especially in Indian driving conditions:

1. Maintain proper tyre pressure: If your tyres are under-inflated, your fuel consumption will increase. Checking tyre pressure regularly is recommended.
 

2. Regular servicing: Your car will run efficiently with timely air filter replacements, oil changes, engine check-ups, and other regular maintenance services.
 

3. Drive smoothly: Avoid frequent breaking, rapid acceleration, and high-speed driving, as this increases fuel consumption as well.
 

4. Reduce idle time: Avoid letting your car be idle with the engine running for long periods. Modern cars use minimal fuel when turned off and restarted, but reducing idle time is still recommended for better mileage.
 

5. Lighten the load: When your car carries a heavier load than usual, it can strain the engine and reduce fuel efficiency.

 

Summing Up

Knowing how to calculate your car's mileage isn't just about saving on fuel costs; it is also about understanding your vehicle better. This knowledge enables you to drive more smartly and take better care of your car, especially when fuel prices vary widely, as in India. These small efforts can result in significant long-term savings.

 

At Shriram Car Insurance, we prioritise efficiency. Our Car Insurance plans are affordable and convenient, and we have a range of add-ons to customise your policy. With Shriram General Insurance, you can confidently embark on that cross-country road trip with your family, knowing you are fully protected!

 

FAQs

1. How can I calculate the mileage of my car?

To calculate the mileage, follow this simple process: fill up your fuel tank, drive a significant distance, refill the tank, and divide the kilometres travelled by the fuel used.

 

2. What is the best way to improve car mileage?

You can improve mileage by maintaining proper tyre pressure, reducing heavy loads, driving smoothly, and minimising AC use. Regular vehicle maintenance, such as timely oil changes, enhances fuel efficiency.

 

3. What is the difference between city and highway mileage?

City mileage tends to be lower due to frequent stops and starts, while highway mileage is typically higher as driving is smoother and more consistent.

 

4. Does driving at higher speeds reduce mileage?

Yes, driving at high speeds increases air resistance and fuel consumption, reducing overall mileage. Sticking to moderate speeds helps maximise fuel efficiency.