7 Common Car Problems That Drain Your Tank and Wallet

In Nigeria today, every drop of petrol counts. With pump prices hovering around ₦950 per litre in many cities, motorists are under increasing pressure to stretch every tank of fuel. While traffic congestion, bad roads, and heavy loads are obvious fuel wasters, there’s another silent enemy at work, hidden car problems that quietly drain fuel without drivers realizing.

Also Read: Types of Fuel and How They Affect Your Car: What Every Driver Should Know

These fuel drainers don’t just increase your fuel bill; they also reduce engine life, increase maintenance costs, and in some cases, raise accident risks. This article reveals 7 common issues that Nigerian drivers overlook and how fixing them can save thousands of naira every month.

1. Underinflated Tyres

Low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance, making the engine work harder.

Impact: Can reduce fuel economy by 3–5%.

Common Cause in Nigeria: Drivers rarely check tyre pressure, relying on roadside vulcanizers who often inflate inconsistently.

Tip: Check tyre pressure weekly. Keep it at manufacturer specifications (usually 30–35 PSI).

2. Dirty Air Filters

Nigeria’s dusty roads clog air filters faster than in many countries. A clogged air filter restricts airflow, forcing the engine to burn more fuel.

Impact: Up to 10% drop in fuel efficiency.

Tip: Inspect and replace air filters every 6 months or 10,000 km.

2. Faulty Oxygen (O₂) Sensor

The O₂ sensor measures exhaust gases and helps adjust fuel mixture. A faulty sensor can make the engine run “rich” — burning excess fuel.

Impact: Poor sensors can waste up to 20% more fuel.

Tip: Have sensors checked during servicing; replace if faulty.

4. Worn Spark Plugs

Old spark plugs cause incomplete combustion, wasting both fuel and engine power.

Impact: Fuel economy drops by up to 30% with misfiring plugs.

Tip: Replace spark plugs every 30,000–50,000 km (or sooner in dusty conditions).

5. Poor Wheel Alignment

Badly aligned wheels drag slightly sideways instead of rolling straight, increasing fuel use.

Impact: Even a small misalignment can waste 3–4% fuel.

Tip: Check alignment every 10,000 km or after hitting a major pothole.

6. Old Engine Oil

Dirty or degraded oil increases internal engine friction, making the engine less efficient.

Impact: Poor lubrication can cut mileage by up to 2–3%.

Tip: Change oil at recommended intervals (usually every 5,000–10,000 km).

7. Excess Weight in the Car

Carrying unnecessary cargo, from heavy tools to sacks of goods increases fuel consumption.

Impact: Every extra 50 kg can reduce fuel efficiency by 2%.

Tip: Remove unnecessary items from boot and cabin.

Case Study

In a recent FRSC roadside inspection in Ogun State, 40% of private cars tested had underinflated tyres. Those same vehicles showed higher-than-average fuel consumption. Simple maintenance could have saved each driver ₦5,000-₦8,000 per month in fuel.

Conclusion

Fuel efficiency is not just about driving style, it’s about keeping your car in peak condition. By tackling these 7 hidden fuel drainers, Nigerian drivers can save money, reduce emissions, and extend their vehicle’s life.

In a time of rising costs, every little fix counts.