The rising prices of several types of non-subsidized petroleum products are increasingly worrying vehicle owners. Pertamax, which previously cost Rp12,300 per liter, has risen to Rp16,250. Even Pertamax Turbo, as of July 2026, remains very high at Rp19,300 per liter.

This situation clearly makes fuel economy a top priority for car owners, especially if the car is used for daily activities.

The problem is, amid increasingly expensive fuel prices, maintaining your car in the best possible condition is essential to prevent excessive fuel consumption. However, the causes of excessive fuel consumption can vary—they may stem from technical issues or driving habits.

Technical Conditions & Car Component Maintenance

Low Tire Pressure

When a car’s tires are flat or underinflated, the engine’s workload increases, leading to higher fuel consumption. Always check and maintain tire pressure regularly according to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Delayed Engine Oil Change

Engine oil that hasn’t been changed for too long loses its optimal lubricating properties. As a result, friction between components in the engine compartment causes the engine to require more fuel to maintain its operating rhythm.

Clogged Air Filter

Dirt and dust that accumulate in the air filter will block the air supply to the combustion chamber. This forces the engine to consume more fuel to achieve maximum power.

Ignoring the Scheduled Maintenance Schedule

These technical issues can actually be prevented with routine maintenance. Cars that aren’t serviced regularly are prone to dirt buildup or component wear, which prevents the engine from operating optimally.

Vehicle Age

Most older cars aren’t equipped with fuel injection systems as advanced and efficient as those in modern vehicles, resulting in less efficient combustion.

Driving Habits & Fuel Selection

Aggressive Driving Style

Poor driving habits—such as suddenly pressing the gas pedal, accelerating rapidly, or driving over rough roads at high speeds—force the engine to work excessively hard. These conditions clearly cause fuel consumption to spike dramatically.

Using the Wrong Fuel

Deliberately using fuel with a lower octane rating than the manufacturer’s recommendation to cut costs actually impairs the engine’s combustion efficiency. The car will feel sluggish, and fuel will be consumed more quickly.

Tips for Fuel-Efficient Driving

To prevent your car from being a gas guzzler, ensure it’s always well-maintained and pay attention to your driving habits. Here are some tips you can follow.

• Regularly check tire pressure to ensure it meets standards before driving
• Change the oil periodically according to the service schedule
• Avoid excessive modifications, especially to tire size and the exhaust system
• Clean or replace the air filter regularly to ensure a smooth flow of air to the engine
• Use fuel as recommended by the manufacturer to maintain quality
• Drive at a steady speed and avoid sudden acceleration or braking
• Reduce speed when driving on uneven roads
• Use the AC sparingly, as excessive cooling causes the compressor to work harder and increases fuel consumption
• Turn off the engine when stopped for an extended period

Why Is Fuel Efficiency So Important?

Amid ongoing fluctuations in the price of non-subsidized fuel, understanding the causes of poor fuel economy is key to reducing expenses.

By keeping your car in top condition and practicing good driving habits, you can improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing driving comfort.

Fuel efficiency also serves as an indicator that the engine is operating in good condition. Conversely, if your car suddenly becomes much less fuel-efficient, this is a clear sign that certain components need further inspection.

But if you want to save even more, using a car rental service can be a good option. You won’t have to worry about any maintenance issues. Simply choose the car you want, then use it as needed.

One car rental provider worth considering is TRAC. They offer both daily and long-term (monthly and annual) rental options with a wide variety of vehicles to choose from.

As one of the business units of PT Serasi Autotaya (SERA)—which is also part of the Astra Group—TRAC has over 39 years of experience and remains committed to always prioritizing customer comfort and safety.

As a recommendation, for long-term use, it’s best to choose a monthly car rental service. With this service, you can enjoy daily mobility without worrying about vehicle maintenance.

There are many car options available for rent—all in top condition, well-maintained, fully insured, and backed by 24-hour customer service.

For more information about TRAC’s services, visit the TRAC website at https://www.trac.astra.co.id/ and follow us on social media:

• Instagram @trac_astra
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