Audi A4 B7: How to Maximize Your MPG

This article applies to the Audi A4 B7 (2004-2008).

Fuel economy can be a tricky thing. Forget to change your air filters on time, fail to replace a set of bad spark plugs or fuel injectors early, or stop and start too aggressively in the city (or on the highway) and you could see a major drop in fuel economy. But these aren't the only culprits. Running your air conditioner during the hot summer and spring months, idling in the winter (or any time) to heat your car and driving too fast (55 miles per hour or higher) can also kill your gas mileage. Keep reading to learn the following helpful tips for improving the gas mileage on your Audi A4 B7. You won't want to drive another day without implementing at least one! Let's get started.

Step 1 – Follow proper maintenance intervals

First things first, before considering your everyday driving habits, you'll first need to consider whether you are properly caring for the components underneath the hood of your car.

• Replace your O-rings regularly and clean dirty fuel injectors as needed.
• Change your engine oil and filter every 4,000 to 5,000 miles, as well as your air filter every 20,000 miles.
• Top your engine coolant at the first sign of engine overheating.
• Swap out your engine vacuum line when it becomes hard, cracked or starts to bulge.
• Check your vacuum brake canister reservoir for damage, and replace as needed.
• Substitute faulty spark plugs for new ones.
• Repair leaks in your intake manifold.
• Inspect your O2 sensors, and replace them as needed.
• Clean your mass air flow sensor every 20,000 miles; replace as needed.
• Run your error codes whenever a warning light persistently appears on the dashboard.

Step 2 – Fill up with premium quality fuel

There's no way around this one, so fill up at the pump with premium quality fuel (every time!) and keep your speed well below 55 miles per hour whenever possible.

Step 3 – Keep your tires properly inflated

Have your tires rotated and balanced every three months. In addition, have the automotive service technician who cares for your tires check your front and rear tires for optimum tread depth as well as pressure. You can also perform these checks using a tire pressure gauge and tire tread gauge, respectively. Once your tires get down to 2/32 inches of remaining tread depth, you will need to have them replaced.

Step 4 – Enjoy cruise control

There are a few driving habits that will allow you to maximize your gas mileage and the cruise control function on the Audi A4 B7 is a prime example. You save gas by driving at a constant speed, which reduces fuel. If you can't, or don't want to use, the cruise control function on your Audi, remember to accelerate slowly and avoid braking whenever possible. This will be difficult in stop-and-go traffic, so try to avoid such routes whenever possible.

Related Discussion

• Improving Gas Mileage - AudiWorld.com