Don't Trust Eco Mode Alone To Save You Money On Gas

When you turn on your car's Eco mode, it will perform actions that can save you fuel. For example, the response to the gas pedal will feel gentler, so the car doesn't jump forward as fast. The car will shift into higher gears sooner and stay there longer, so the engine works less hard. The air-conditioning may also run a bit lighter to ease the load on the engine. Every brand sets the details slightly differently, but those are the main changes you can expect to notice when Eco mode is on. Eco mode is standard on many newer car models, including the 2025 Honda Accord, the 2025 Toyota RAV4, and Nissan Rogue models from around 2023 onward.

Yet, using Eco mode alone may not save you money on gas. How you drive, the traffic you sit in, the hills you climb, and hot or cold weather that makes the air-conditioning or heater work, all affect how much gas you use. In fact, a Consumer Reports test published on July 13, 2024, found little to no direct improvement in how much fuel a car uses while driving in the city or on the highway with Eco mode activated. The testers noted, however, that the feature's "value rests in its ability to encourage frugal driving behavior that can make a difference." In other words, it helps you avoid those driving mistakes that cost you money.

To save on gas, consider a car with good gas mileage, like the gas-mileage-minded 2024 Honda Accord or even a cheaper used hybrid car. However, it's also important to realize that driving aggressively, including habits like speeding, sudden stops, or rapid acceleration, can increase fuel consumption by 10% to 40% in city traffic and 15% to 30% on the highway. Furthermore, you can reduce your gas consumption by 5% to 10% on average trips by driving smoothly, and by up to 20% in heavy stop-and-go traffic, per the National Renewable Energy Laboratory.

Also, you can help your car use less gas by keeping a steady speed, especially on highways, and using cruise control when it's safe. Remember to plan your errands in one trip instead of several short outings to reduce fuel use. What you carry matters too: Extra weight in your trunk makes the engine work harder and will use more gas. Every extra 100 pounds can reduce your fuel mileage by about 1%, according to the U.S Department of Energy. If you have roof racks or cargo boxes, they can create resistance that makes the engine work harder to keep the same speed and, in turn, use more fuel. Even if they're empty, they can increase how much fuel you use on the highway by over 10%, per Consumer Reports. Finally, another way to help save your hard-earned cash is to apply a few money-saving practices when you buy gas.