How To Fix High Mazda Fuel Consumption

We’ve all been there—pulling up to the gas pump way more often than we used to, wondering why our Mazda seems to be guzzling fuel like it’s trying to break a record. Whether you're driving a Mazda3, CX-5, or even the sleek MX-5, high fuel consumption is never fun for your wallet. The good news? Most causes of poor fuel economy are totally fixable. You don’t have to be a mechanic to understand what’s going on. And if you need professional help, the folks at Empire Mazda of Green Brook are just a click away. You can also check their genuine Mazda parts and service offers to stay on top of maintenance without overpaying.

1. Check Tire Pressure – It's That Simple

Let’s start with something surprisingly basic: your tires. Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder to move the car. This directly burns more fuel.

What to do:

• Check your tire pressure once a month.
• Inflate to the PSI listed on the driver’s door sticker (not the number on the tire).
• Make sure to check all four tires—one low tire can throw things off.

This is one of the easiest ways to improve fuel efficiency, and it takes five minutes max.

2. Replace a Dirty Air Filter

Your Mazda’s engine needs clean air to mix with fuel and ignite properly. When the air filter is clogged with dust or debris, it restricts airflow and forces the engine to compensate by burning more fuel.

What to do:

• Pop the hood and inspect the air filter.
• If it looks dark, dusty, or clogged, it’s time for a replacement.
• Mazda recommends changing it about every 12,000–15,000 miles, but check more often if you drive in dusty areas.

A clean air filter alone can improve fuel economy by up to 10%, which adds up fast.

3. Fix Faulty Oxygen Sensors

Your O2 sensors monitor the air-fuel mixture and send data to the engine control unit. If they’re damaged or sluggish, your Mazda may run rich (too much fuel, not enough air), which destroys fuel economy.

What to do:

• If your check engine light is on, get the code scanned.
• Codes like P0131 or P0140 usually point to bad oxygen sensors.
• Replace faulty sensors with OEM parts for best performance.

Bad O2 sensors can cut your fuel mileage by up to 20%. That’s serious money over time.

4. Use the Right Motor Oil

Believe it or not, the kind of oil you use matters. Using a heavier oil than what’s recommended for your Mazda can create extra friction in the engine, making it work harder.

What to do:

• Stick to Mazda’s recommended oil grade (often 0W-20 for many newer models).
• Avoid off-brand or low-quality oils that may lack proper additives.

Switching to the right oil can quietly increase MPG and extend engine life.

5. Clean the Fuel Injectors

Over time, your fuel injectors can get clogged with carbon deposits, especially if you drive a lot in stop-and-go traffic. Dirty injectors spray fuel unevenly, leading to wasted gas and rough idling.

What to do:

• Add a high-quality fuel system cleaner to your gas tank every few months.
• If the car still runs rough, have your injectors cleaned professionally.
• A Mazda tech can check spray patterns and perform ultrasonic cleaning if needed.

This is especially helpful for older Mazdas or high-mileage vehicles.

6. Avoid Aggressive Driving

It sounds obvious, but driving style plays a massive role in fuel economy. Hard acceleration, speeding, and sudden braking all waste fuel.

Try this instead:

• Accelerate smoothly and anticipate stops.
• Use cruise control on highways when possible.
• Stick to the speed limit—fuel economy usually drops dramatically above 65 mph.

Even small tweaks in driving behavior can make a noticeable difference at the pump.

7. Check the Spark Plugs

Worn spark plugs don’t ignite fuel efficiently, which can cause misfires, rough idling, and—you guessed it—higher fuel consumption.

What to do:

• If your Mazda is hesitating, vibrating, or feels sluggish, inspect the plugs.
• Replace them every 60,000–100,000 miles depending on your Mazda model.
• Always use Mazda-recommended plugs or OEM replacements.

Bad spark plugs = wasted fuel. It’s that simple.

8. Update Your Mazda’s Software

Mazda occasionally releases ECU (Engine Control Unit) software updates to improve fuel efficiency, fix bugs, or fine-tune the air-fuel mixture.

What to do:

• Ask your service advisor about software updates next time you’re in for maintenance.
• Some updates are free under warranty or during routine service visits.

It’s a small detail most drivers forget—but it can lead to smoother performance and better MPG.

Still stumped or just want a pro to handle it? Schedule an inspection with Empire Mazda of Green Brook to get personalized help. From quick diagnostics to deep system cleanings, they’ll get your Mazda sipping fuel instead of chugging it.