7 Tips On Improving Fuel Efficiency in GM Models

Fuel efficiency is more than just a buzzword—it’s a key concern for modern drivers, especially as fuel prices remain unpredictable and environmental awareness grows. General Motors (GM), one of the leading automakers in North America, offers a wide variety of vehicles known for performance, innovation, and design. Whether you’re driving a Chevrolet Silverado, a GMC Terrain, or a Cadillac XT5, there are always ways to maximize fuel economy without sacrificing comfort or power. GM vehicles are already engineered with fuel-saving technologies, but how you drive and maintain your vehicle can make a big difference. For those considering a purchase, taking advantage of the GM friends and family discount can make owning a fuel-efficient GM model even more rewarding. Below, we explore seven practical tips to help you get the most miles per gallon from your GM vehicle.

Maintain Proper Tire Pressure

One of the simplest and most effective ways to boost fuel efficiency is by maintaining the recommended tire pressure. Under-inflated tires increase rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder to move the vehicle. This results in higher fuel consumption.

GM vehicles come equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS), which alert drivers when tire pressure is too low. However, it’s still a good idea to check your tires manually at least once a month. Properly inflated tires not only improve gas mileage but also enhance safety and extend tire life. Always refer to your GM owner’s manual or the sticker located on the driver’s door frame for the correct PSI levels.

Avoid Aggressive Driving

Fast acceleration, hard braking, and sudden lane changes not only put stress on your vehicle but also significantly reduce fuel economy. GM’s advanced driver assistance systems, such as Forward Collision Alert and Adaptive Cruise Control, encourage smoother, more consistent driving patterns.

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, aggressive driving can lower gas mileage by as much as 15% to 30% on the highway and 10% to 40% in stop-and-go traffic. By accelerating gradually, anticipating stops, and maintaining a steady speed, you can greatly enhance your GM vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

Utilize GM’s Fuel Economy Features

Many newer GM models come with features specifically designed to improve fuel economy. For example:

• Start/Stop Technology: Automatically shuts off the engine at complete stops to reduce idling time.
• Active Fuel Management: Found in select GM V8 engines, this system deactivates half the cylinders when full power isn’t needed.
• Drive Modes: Some GM vehicles allow you to select “Eco Mode,” which adjusts throttle response and transmission behavior for improved efficiency.

Get familiar with these built-in systems and use them to your advantage. If you’re unsure what features your vehicle includes, check the infotainment system or your owner’s manual.

Keep Up With Regular Maintenance

Routine maintenance plays a major role in keeping your GM vehicle running efficiently. Delayed oil changes, dirty air filters, worn spark plugs, and aging oxygen sensors can all negatively affect your fuel economy.

Make sure to follow GM’s recommended maintenance schedule, which is tailored to each model’s engine type and performance specs. Using GM-approved oil and parts ensures that your engine runs smoothly, improving both fuel economy and vehicle longevity.

Additionally, regular maintenance helps technicians catch potential issues early—saving you money in both fuel and future repair costs.

Reduce Excess Weight and Drag

The more weight your vehicle carries, the harder your engine has to work, which leads to increased fuel consumption. Remove unnecessary items from the trunk, roof, or cargo area—especially heavy equipment or gear that isn’t used regularly.

Aerodynamic drag is another factor that can hinder fuel efficiency. Roof racks, cargo boxes, and bike mounts add significant wind resistance. If you’re not using them, consider removing them to enhance your vehicle’s aerodynamics and improve highway MPG.

Even keeping windows closed at higher speeds can help. Open windows create drag, which forces the engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Instead, rely on your GM model’s efficient climate control system.

Use Cruise Control on Highways

On long drives, using cruise control can greatly improve fuel economy by maintaining a steady speed and reducing unnecessary acceleration and deceleration. GM’s Adaptive Cruise Control takes this a step further by automatically adjusting your speed to maintain a safe distance from vehicles ahead, optimizing both safety and efficiency.

This tip is especially beneficial for highway driving, where fluctuations in speed tend to waste fuel. That said, avoid using cruise control in hilly or mountainous areas, where it may actually consume more fuel by overcompensating for elevation changes.

Plan Efficient Routes

Whether you’re commuting to work or embarking on a road trip, route planning can have a direct impact on your vehicle’s fuel consumption. Avoiding traffic congestion, construction zones, and frequent stops can save both time and gas.

Use apps like Google Maps or Waze to find the most efficient routes. Many GM vehicles also come with built-in navigation systems that can suggest fuel-efficient paths and alert you to traffic delays.

Planning your trips to combine errands into one outing instead of multiple short drives is also more efficient. A warm engine uses fuel more efficiently than a cold one, so grouping tasks reduces overall consumption.

Conclusion

Improving fuel efficiency doesn’t necessarily require buying a new hybrid or electric vehicle—although GM offers those options as well. Often, small changes in driving habits, maintenance routines, and understanding your vehicle’s built-in features can make a substantial difference. Whether you drive a sporty Camaro, a reliable Malibu, a rugged Silverado, or a family-friendly Suburban, each GM model has the potential for better fuel economy with the right approach.

Incorporating these tips into your daily driving routine will not only help you save money at the pump but also reduce your carbon footprint and extend the life of your vehicle. And if you’re considering upgrading to a newer model. Your wallet—and the environment—will thank you.