Your Questions Answered—Straight Talk From the Pros at Frank’s
Fuel prices might rise and fall, but the importance of good fuel efficiency never changes, especially here in Las Vegas and Henderson Valley, where long commutes and summer heat can push your vehicle to its limits.
At Frank’s European Service, we often hear the same questions from drivers of Mercedes, BMW, Audi, MINI, Volkswagen, and Land Rover vehicles:
- How can I get better gas mileage?
- Am I doing something wrong?
- Is my car performing at its best?
This month, we’re answering your top fuel efficiency questions—so you can get the most out of every gallon and every drive.
❓Q: What’s considered “normal” fuel efficiency for my European car?
That depends on your vehicle’s make, model, engine type, and driving style. For example:
- A MINI Cooper may average 28–32 MPG combined
- A BMW 3 Series could fall in the 25–30 MPG range
- A Land Rover or Audi SUV may get closer to 18–22 MPG
If you’re seeing a sudden drop in mileage—or your vehicle isn’t matching its usual numbers—it could be a sign of something worth checking out, like:
- Dirty air or fuel filters
- Under-inflated tires
- Worn spark plugs
- A malfunctioning O2 sensor
❓Q: Can regular maintenance really improve fuel economy?
Absolutely. Routine maintenance is one of the easiest and most effective ways to protect your fuel economy and engine health.
Here’s what we recommend checking regularly:
- Air filters: A clogged filter restricts airflow and hurts efficiency
- Fuel system: Clean injectors = cleaner combustion = better mileage
- Engine oil: Old or low oil creates drag, especially in the Vegas heat
- Tire pressure: Under-inflated tires can reduce MPG by up to 3%
At Frank’s, we offer complete maintenance packages designed specifically for European makes and models, keeping you road-ready and efficient year-round.
❓Q: Does the kind of fuel I use really matter?
Yes—and even more so with European vehicles. Most German cars are designed to run on premium fuel (91+ octane) to protect engine timing and performance. Using regular unleaded may save you a few bucks at the pump—but over time, it can reduce efficiency, increase engine wear, and affect long-term performance.
Frank’s Tip: Stick with premium fuel unless your owner’s manual says otherwise. And if you’re unsure, we’re happy to check for you.
❓Q: Are there driving habits that improve fuel efficiency?
Yes—how you drive can have a huge impact on MPG. Here are a few tips we share with our customers:
- Avoid aggressive acceleration and sudden braking
- Use cruise control on highways to maintain steady speed
- Don’t let your car idle for long periods (yes, even in summer)
- Empty your trunk of unnecessary weight
- Keep windows closed at high speeds to reduce drag
Driving with care helps your wallet and your vehicle in the long run.
❓Q: Can performance upgrades help or hurt fuel economy?
It depends. Some aftermarket upgrades—like cold air intakes or tuning chips—promise improved fuel efficiency, but results vary and can void warranties if installed improperly.
If you’re thinking about upgrades, talk to us first. Our team can walk you through what’s worth it and what could end up costing more in the long run.
Maximize Your MPG—The Right Way
Fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money—it’s about keeping your vehicle running at its best. Whether you’re daily driving or heading out on a weekend road trip, Frank’s is here to help you get the most out of your car—safely, smoothly, and smartly.
📞 Schedule your next service today to make sure your vehicle is tuned, clean, and fuel-efficient.
📍 Proudly serving the Las Vegas and Henderson Valley region
🚗 Specializing in European performance—without the dealership hassle.
