If you drive in Waterloo Region, you already know: gas isn’t cheap, and most of us rely on our vehicles every day.
At DialaTire.ca, we specialize in keeping your car efficient, reliable, and road-ready. Whether you’re cruising down University Avenue or stuck on Fairway Road in rush hour, here’s how proper maintenance can help your gas dollars go further.
Why Maintenance = Fuel Efficiency
Your car is a complex system of moving parts. When any of them aren’t running right, whether it’s your tires, engine, filters, or fluids, it can force the vehicle to work harder, burning more fuel in the process.
Regular maintenance keeps everything in sync. Here’s how, system by system:
1. Keep Your Tires Inflated and Aligned
Tires are your first line of fuel defense. When they’re underinflated or misaligned, they increase something called “rolling resistance,” the amount of effort your engine needs to move the car.
Why it matters:
- Just 2 PSI underinflated can reduce fuel economy by 0.6% per tire
- Misalignment can drag down efficiency and wear out your tires faster
- Poor tire condition can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%
What to do:
- Get a monthly tire pressure check (it’s free at DialaTire!)
- Rotate tires every 8,000–10,000 km
- Schedule a wheel alignment annually, or sooner if you’ve hit potholes or curbs
Pro Tip: In Waterloo, where seasons change fast, temperature swings can drop tire pressure overnight. Get them checked when the weather shifts.
2. Change Your Engine Oil Regularly (and Use the Right Kind)
Old or low engine oil creates friction, meaning your engine has to work harder which burns more gas.
What you’ll save:
- Using manufacturer-recommended oil can improve mileage by 1–2%
- Skipping oil changes can reduce efficiency and eventually damage the engine
Our recommendation:
- Change oil every 5,000–8,000 km, depending on your vehicle and usage
- Use low-friction, high-performance oil if recommended
3. Replace Air Filters to Improve Engine Breathing
Your engine needs clean air to burn fuel efficiently. A clogged air filter chokes that process.
What you’ll save:
- A dirty filter can lower mileage by 10% or more
- Replacing a clogged filter can improve acceleration and performance
We recommend inspecting your air filter every 20,000 km, especially important in dusty or high-traffic areas like downtown Kitchener or near industrial zones in Cambridge.
4. Tune-Ups and Spark Plugs: Small Parts, Big Impact
If your spark plugs are worn or misfiring, they won’t ignite fuel efficiently—wasting gas and harming performance.
Real numbers:
- Replacing faulty spark plugs can improve mileage by up to 30%
- A tune-up can fix small problems that quietly cost you fuel over time
Book a tune-up every 50,000–100,000 km, or when your check engine light comes on.
5. Keep Your Fuel System Clean
Over time, carbon builds up in your fuel injectors and combustion chambers. That gunk interrupts fuel flow and causes your engine to waste more gas.
What you’ll gain:
- Fuel system cleaning can restore up to 4–15% in lost fuel economy
- Clean fuel injectors ensure optimal spray patterns and combustion
Ask us about our fuel system service—we recommend it every 40,000–60,000 km.
6. Maintain Proper Brake Function
Worn or dragging brakes create resistance, just like underinflated tires. That forces your engine to work harder, especially in city traffic.
Signs of fuel-wasting brake issues:
- Squealing, grinding, or pulling
- Brakes that feel soft or sticky
- Wheels that get hot even when not braking
Get your brakes inspected at least once a year—or every 20,000 km.
7. Check the Oxygen Sensor and Emission System
Your oxygen sensor monitors how efficiently your engine burns fuel. A faulty one can trick your car into using too much gas.
What you could save:
- Replacing a bad O2 sensor can improve mileage by up to 40% in some cases
If your check engine light is on, this sensor could be the culprit—and it’s a quick fix that pays off.
8. Monitor Transmission and Coolant Systems
Both of these systems affect how smoothly and efficiently your engine operates.
- Low transmission fluid can lead to slippage, poor shifting, and lower fuel efficiency
- Overheating engines (caused by bad coolant or leaks) waste fuel and risk major damage
Top up fluids regularly, and ask us for a multi-point inspection before long road trips or seasonal changes.
9. Get Regular Vehicle Inspections
A trained eye can spot problems before they cost you at the pump, or worse, at the mechanic.
At DialaTire, our full inspection includes:
- Tires, brakes, suspension
- Oil and fluid levels
- Filters and belts
- Fuel and exhaust systems
We recommend a comprehensive inspection at least twice a year—spring and fall are great times.
10. Bonus: What Not to Ignore
These are maintenance issues that don’t just impact performance—they directly waste fuel:
| Problem | Fuel Efficiency Impact |
| Underinflated tires | 3–5% lower mileage |
| Old spark plugs | Up to 30% wasted fuel |
| Dirty air filter | 10% or more loss |
| Faulty oxygen sensor | Up to 40% loss |
| Dragging brakes | 5–10% loss |
| Low engine oil | 2%+ and long-term wear |
| Ignored check engine light | Massive fuel waste risk |
Waterloo Drivers: Why This Matters More Here
Drivers in Kitchener-Waterloo and Cambridge often face:
- Cold winters, which thicken oil and drop tire pressure
- Busy traffic on the Conestoga Parkway and regional roads
- Seasonal driving conditions that demand good traction and fast response
That’s why local maintenance isn’t just smart—it’s crucial.
Save More Than Fuel: Lower Repairs, Longer Life
Keeping up with maintenance doesn’t just save gas, it protects your car from bigger, more expensive problems down the road.
Regular maintenance helps you:
- Avoid sudden breakdowns
- Reduce emissions and environmental impact
- Extend your car’s lifespan by thousands of kilometres
The Greenest Fuel is the One You Don’t Burn
Fuel efficiency doesn’t start with a new car, it starts with caring for the one you already own. And that starts with regular, reliable maintenance.
Whether it’s:
- Keeping your tires properly inflated
- Swapping filters on time
- Getting a seasonal inspection
each of these small actions adds up. Better mileage. Fewer repairs. A car that lasts longer and runs cleaner.
Let DialaTire.ca help you drive smarter, save fuel, and stay safe.
Why Choose Dial A Tire?
We’re not just tire specialists, we’re your car’s best friend. Here’s what makes us different:
- Expert inspections that catch fuel-wasting issues early
- Transparent, friendly explanations—no pressure or jargon
- Access to high-efficiency tire brands like Michelin and Bridgestone
- Easy booking and upfront pricing
About Dial A Tire
Dial A Tire Ontario is a family owned business located in Waterloo, specializing in tires and automotive services for the entire region. Established in 2013, they offer new and high-quality new and used tires, professional tire storage, and custom wheels. Beyond tires, they provide comprehensive auto repair services like brake repairs, wheel alignments, and suspension work, ensuring safety and performance. With 17+ years of experience, their team prioritizes customer satisfaction and environmental responsibility. Whether you need tire swaps, luxury vehicle tires, or seasonal maintenance, Dial A Tire is your trusted local choice.
