How to Maximize MPG with Your Hybrid Car

Feb 12, 2025

When you drive a hybrid, one of the biggest perks is stretching out the time between gas station visits. That’s why it can be frustrating when your MPG starts slipping. If you've noticed your hybrid isn't getting the fuel economy it used to, don’t worry—there are plenty of ways to get it back on track.

Here’s your go-to checklist for keeping your hybrid running efficiently and getting the most miles out of every gallon.

1. Drive Smoothly

Hybrid cars thrive on smooth, controlled driving. Quick acceleration and sudden braking waste energy, while gentle driving helps maximize regenerative braking. Here’s how to keep things smooth:

• Ease into stops and starts – Sudden movements waste fuel and stress the battery.
• Look ahead – Anticipate traffic changes so you can adjust speed gradually.
• Monitor your energy usage – Your dashboard can show how efficiently you’re using the battery.
• Use brake assist as often as possible - Most hybrid vehicles are equipped with brake assist technology that helps maintain the health of the hybrid battery while also reducing wear and tear on your brakes.

Let the battery handle more of the work without stressing it unnecessarily.

2. Pump Up Your Tires

Your tires play a surprisingly big role in your MPG. Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder to keep you moving.

• Check your tire pressure often – Find the recommended PSI on the driver’s doorframe.
• Consider low rolling resistance tires – These are designed for better fuel economy. Ask for assistance at the auto parts store, or check out your options online.
• Adjust for winter – Be careful to no overinflate in cold weather, as this can reduce traction.

3. Remove Unnecessary Weight

Carrying extra weight in your hybrid is like walking with a heavy backpack—you burn more energy. Now, we don't mean pulling out the back seats and turning your hybrid into a drag racer. We simply mean you should avoid leaving a lot of junk in your hybrid car if you don't need it.

• Clean out your trunk – If you’re hauling unnecessary junk, your MPG will suffer. Make a habit of going through your trunk and taking out anything you don’t regularly need.
• Ditch roof racks and cargo carriers if you don’t need them – They increase wind resistance and lower fuel efficiency.

This is a small but important piece of the fuel efficiency puzzle. 

4. Drive in Eco Mode

Most hybrid cars have an Eco Mode, which helps regulate acceleration and throttle response.

• Eco Mode smooths out power usage – It helps your car rely more on the battery and less on gas.
• It extends battery life – Less strain means better long-term efficiency.

If you’re not already using Eco Mode for daily driving, switch it on!

5. Don't Overuse Your A/C

Air conditioning is a notorious power hog. Running it too much drains your hybrid battery, forcing your car to rely more on gas.

• Use windows or the fan when possible – At low speeds, this is more efficient than A/C.
• Over 45 mph? Stick with A/C – Open windows create drag at high speeds, which can hurt MPG more than A/C use.

A little A/C mindfulness can go a long way toward better fuel economy.

6. Service Your Hybrid Regularly

Skipping maintenance can cause unseen issues that sap your MPG. There could be internal problems with your vehicle that are draining the hybrid battery and potentially causing other problems.

• Get regular check-ups – A mechanic can spot problems like battery inefficiencies or engine issues.
• Keep up with oil changes – Use the right oil for your hybrid to reduce friction and improve fuel economy.
• Check wheel alignment – Misaligned wheels can drag down your MPG without you realizing it.
• Regularly use fuel additives - Using low-end gas can impact your MPG over time. To prevent this, use a fuel additive or purchase higher-end gas every third fill up or so to extend the life of the vehicle.

A well-maintained hybrid is an efficient hybrid.

7. Clean the Hybrid Battery Cooling Fan

Your hybrid battery generates heat, and the cooling fan keeps it at an optimal temperature. If this fan gets clogged with dust or debris, your battery won’t perform as well.

• Check the vent and fan for blockages – Pet hair, dirt, and dust can restrict airflow.
• Make sure nothing is covering the vent – Items in the backseat or trunk can sometimes block air flow.

A cool battery is a happy battery—and a happy battery means better MPG.

8. Replace Your Hybrid Battery

If your hybrid is getting older, your declining MPG might also be a symptom of the hybrid battery failing. Given that hybrid vehicles are on the road 2 more years than other vehicles on average, there's a strong chance you'll have your hybrid car long enough to need a hybrid battery replacement. A new or quality refurbished hybrid battery can bring your hybrid car back to life and totally revamp your mileage like when the vehicle was brand new.

• Hybrid batteries degrade over time – This means they hold less charge and rely more on gas.
• Replacing the hybrid battery restores MPG – A fresh hybrid battery can bring your car’s efficiency back to its original level.

At Hybrid Battery 911, we offer on-the-spot hybrid battery replacements with free installation. Even if your battery hasn’t failed yet, a new or refurbished battery can give your MPG a serious boost, and replacing preemptively can help you avoid a long wait on the side of the road and towing costs.

Hybrid Battery Replacement Near Me

Getting the best MPG out of your hybrid isn’t complicated—it just takes a little attention to detail. By following these steps, you’ll keep your hybrid running at peak efficiency and enjoy more time on the road between fill-ups.

Got questions about your hybrid battery? Hybrid Battery 911 has you covered with expert replacements and service. Let’s keep your hybrid running like new!