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MPG Formula:
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Miles Per Gallon (MPG) is a measurement of fuel efficiency that represents how many miles a vehicle can travel using one gallon of fuel. It's a standard metric used to compare the fuel economy of different vehicles.
The calculator uses the MPG formula:
Where:
Explanation: The calculation divides the total miles traveled by the amount of fuel used to determine how many miles the vehicle can travel per gallon of fuel.
Details: Calculating MPG helps vehicle owners understand their fuel efficiency, estimate fuel costs for trips, compare vehicle performance, and identify potential mechanical issues that may be reducing fuel economy.
Tips: Enter the total miles driven and gallons used from a full tank of gas. For the most accurate results, reset your trip odometer when you fill up your tank completely, then record the miles driven and gallons needed to fill the tank again.
Q1: What is considered good MPG?
A: Good MPG varies by vehicle type. Generally, 25+ MPG is good for most cars, while 15-20 MPG is typical for trucks and SUVs. Electric and hybrid vehicles often achieve 40+ MPG equivalent.
Q2: Why does my actual MPG differ from the manufacturer's rating?
A: Manufacturer ratings are based on standardized tests. Real-world driving conditions, driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and environmental factors can all affect actual MPG.
Q3: How can I improve my vehicle's MPG?
A: Regular maintenance, proper tire inflation, reduced idling, smooth acceleration and braking, and removing excess weight can all help improve fuel efficiency.
Q4: Should I calculate MPG over multiple tanks for accuracy?
A: Yes, calculating MPG over several tanks provides a more accurate average, as driving conditions and fuel pump accuracy can vary between fill-ups.
Q5: Does MPG calculation work for diesel vehicles?
A: Yes, the same calculation works for diesel vehicles, though diesel engines typically achieve higher MPG than comparable gasoline engines.