How can I use the air con in a way that won't reduce fuel economy?

I know that a/c reduces fuel economy, but what would achieve better fuel economy - to set a higher temperature and higher fan speed or to set a lower temperature and lower fan speed?

Asked on 9 July 2017 by DOMINIC ALLAN

Answered by Honest John

It barely has any effect at all on fuel economy on a long run. Opening the windows creates so much drag that the car will then use more fuel than running with the a/c on. However, in stop start traffic it will increase fuel consumption more than opening the windows.

Tags: air con short journeys fuel economy consumer advice

Similar questions

Motability is now charging to unclog DPFs - should I get a petrol SUV/MPV to avoid this issue?

I'm a Motability hirer. For three years, I have driven a diesel Nissan Qashqai 1.5 and had no DPF problems whilst doing mainly short runs and covering 20,000 miles. My real mpg is approximately 45 - 60...

What are the drawbacks with DPFs?

What are the drawbacks with particulate filters?

Is it true that diesel engines are unsuited to mainly short journeys?