How to Improve Ford Mustang Gas Mileage

Gas-Guzzlers Don't Come Cheap

Ford Mustang GT
Tyler Merrick / Getty Images

Has your Mustang's gas mileage got you down? Do you feel as though you're at the gas pump more often than you're on the road? If so, you are not alone. Many Mustang owners love their sports cars but don't love the fact that they aren't so fuel-friendly. How can you improve your Mustang gas mileage?

Well, according to the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there are several ways in which Mustang owners can improve their gas mileage.

1. Drive More Efficiently
As difficult as this may seem, this means you should avoid speeding and rapidly accelerating your Mustang. This alone is said to improve gas mileage by 33 percent at highway speeds and by 5 percent around town.

2. Watch Your Speed
Another suggestion is to watch your speed. The EPA says gas mileage usually decreases rapidly at speeds above 60 mph. For every 5 mph you drive over 60, the EPA claims you are paying an additional .20 centers per gallon in gas.

3. Remove Excess Weight
Excess weight is another factor that can hamper a Mustang's gas mileage. Instead, lighten up your ride. The EPA says an extra 100 pounds in your car can reduce your gas mileage by 2 percent. Vehicles such as the Mustang will be impacted by this more so than heavy vehicles such as trucks and SUVs. Don't lug around heavy items if you don't need to -- it could save you a few bucks at the pump.

4. Use Overdrive
Don’t forget to use the overdrive button if your Mustang is equipped with this feature. The EPA says that using overdrive brings the engine speed down, which results in better Mustang gas mileage.

5. Avoid Idling
Bottom line, idling wastes gas. When you idle you’re getting 0 mpg. Although vehicles with larger engines are impacted more so than vehicles with smaller engines, idling can hurt your gas mileage and could result in frequent fill-ups.

6. Keep Your Tires Inflated
The EPA says you can increase your gas mileage by 3.3 percent simply by keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure. Under-inflated tires can lower gas mileage by 0.4 percent for every 1 psi drop in pressure of all four tires. It can also cause tires to wear unevenly.

7. Keep Your Engine Tuned
Tune-ups are said to increase fuel efficiency by an average of 4 percent. The EPA says fixing a serious problem such as a faulty oxygen sensor can improve gas mileage by an impressive 40 percent.

8. Use Cruise Control
Cruise control helps your Mustang maintain a steady speed on the highway. This can help maximize your gas mileage in most cases...and still let you enjoy cruising in your Mustang.

9. Change Your Air Filter
Dirty air filters can really hurt gas mileage. A clean filter is said to improve mileage by as much as 10 percent. Aftermarket filters also exist, which are said to improve fuel efficiency. Investigate aftermarket alternatives.

10. Use the Correct Oil
The EPA  says you can improve your Mustang’s gas mileage simply by using the correct grade of motor oil. Using the wrong grade of oil can lower your gas mileage by 1 to 2 percent.