Summer Myth: Does Car AC Really Double Fuel Consumption?

Many car owners believe that running the air conditioner is the main reason behind the significant increase in fuel consumption during the summer. However, experts confirm that this belief is exaggerated, as the AC's impact on fuel consumption typically ranges between 5% and 20%, and it never reaches the point of doubling consumption as rumored.

In this context, Waleed Abdo, manager of a car maintenance center, explained that any noticeable rise in fuel consumption requires looking into other technical and behavioral causes, which are often the main factor behind the issue. He pointed out that the most prominent of these causes include low tire pressure, accumulated dirt in the air filter, worn-out spark plugs, aggressive driving habits involving sudden acceleration, increased load inside the vehicle, as well as misaligned wheels or problems in the cooling system.

Abdo added that driving at high speeds makes using the air conditioner a more efficient choice than opening the windows, as open windows increase air resistance and raise the engine's workload, thereby increasing fuel consumption.

He concluded by emphasizing that blaming the AC alone for high fuel consumption is inaccurate, stressing the importance of regular maintenance and inspecting consumable parts to maintain the car's efficiency and reduce expenses in the long run.