Mechanic reveals trick for making sure your engine burns through less gas

Photo by@smdautocareservice1/TikTok kckate16/ShutterStock Pakpanat/ShutterStock

A mechanic posting to the SMD Auto Care (@smdautocareservice1) TikTok recently racked up over 63,000 views in a viral clip.

The vehicle maintenance business shared some useful tips for people in a text message overlay of their video: “If you notice your car is using more fuel than usual, change your spark plugs.”

Additionally, the TikToker writes you should also “change [your] air filter.” The last step recommended is to “clean your injector nozzles.”

Although the 10-second video doesn't go into specifics on how to perform these tasks, it does offer a clear illustration. And that's of an engine with its injector nozzles detached from its block.

Replacing air filters and spark plugs might be something even the least knowledgeable about cars can recognize. However, the idea of cleaning fuel injector nozzles might seem overwhelming. And is it even effective?

A Cherokee driver in this Jeep discussion shared that it's indeed effective. The driver mentioned experiencing a noticeable increase in miles per gallon after changing the fuel injector nozzles.

A Volkswagen TDI Club poster also said they enjoyed a hefty 7mpg bump after installing new fuel injector nozzles.

Maintenance = increased MPG

Redditors in the r/DoorDash sub also talked about the benefits of replacing old spark plugs to get better gas mileage. This means they spend less on fuel for their deliveries, which leads to more money for the people working for food delivery services. The idea of replacing spark plugs was seen as a game-changer because it was so straightforward. However, it would seem that some models require more time to get at the plugs than others.

In essence, the process is pretty straightforward: Find the spark plug cover. This is usually at the top of the engine block. Remove the old spark plugs. Put in new ones. Put the old parts back in the right places with the right screws. Then, close the hood, get in the car, start it, and enjoy.

And when it comes to air filters, some give varying figures about mpg improvements. The Harris Tire Company states folks can expect to enjoy no more than 10% better fuel economy. While that might not sound like much, over time, this adds up for a pretty inexpensive and easy-to-perform change.

Someone on this Quora post, however, stated that drivers can only expect to enjoy a “slight” boost to their fuel economy. Just don’t tell that to this Range Rover driver who said their MPG jumped by 50% after changing out the air filter.

What about fuel injector cleaner?

While browsing through the aisles of car shops and various stores, you might have stumbled upon fuel injector cleaners. Products like Red Line, Lucas Upper Cylinder Lubricant, and Marvel Mystery Oil all promise to achieve the same goal: to keep your engine clean by lubricating its parts and removing any buildup. Any obstructions, such as carbon or sediment in the engine, can lead to serious issues that might last a long time.

That’s because these blockages, even small ones, can inhibit fuel flow. This reduced fuel circulation can result in an mpg dip, as well as hindered acceleration and engine power.

Despite the ongoing debate over their effectiveness, there are supporters of these products. A Quora user mentioned that there are indeed many injector cleaners available that actually deliver on their promises. A helpful way to find the right engine cleaner or lubricant for your vehicle is to check out forums for mechanics.

Of course, there are always YouTube channels specializing in this kind of thing. Nates Interactive Auto wanted to see what all the fuss about Marvel Mystery Oil was in this clip.

They inserted a camera into the engine before filling their gas tank with the red substance, allowing it to operate. And then, following that. The outcomes were immediately apparent, even when using a not-so-exact 4k borescope camera.

It appears that M.M.O. performed reasonably well. Following a single application, it managed to remove dirt from the engine as demonstrated by the YouTuber in his video. Should you still be undecided about giving it a try, take a look at the comments.

Other steps

TikTokers who saw the mechanic’s post also put forth some of their fuel consumption fixes. One wrote, “Clean your intake manifold and change the gasket as well as valve cover too. Seafoam works great.”

One wrote, “Nissan engine I guess cos I’m using the same injectors for ma 2012 Versa.”

Another said that issues with gas-guzzling were usually solved by swapping out a part not mentioned in the TikTok. “If it’s running rich it’s the oxygen sensor,” they penned.

However, one TikToker replied that folks need not buy and replace parts on a whim. “You need to diagnose it to fish out the faulty parts then replace them with the right ones. Art like a Medical Doctor always, consultation -lab(diagnosis)- prescribe,” they penned.