Ford trucks and SUVs are built tough, just what many people need for our region’s driving demands: steep ascents, dirt backroads, and winding highways. At this time of year, our beautiful North Idaho lakes, mountains, and rivers, along with glorious summer weather, seem to invite us out for long drives to explore all the glorious locales of the Inland Northwest. But with gas prices fluctuating so dramatically, it’s no wonder more people are interested in getting the most miles out of every gallon they purchase. The good news is that, with a few smart habits and maintenance steps, you can noticeably improve fuel efficiency without sacrificing capability.
At Mike White Ford in Coeur d’Alene and Sandpoint, Idaho, we help customers maximize performance and savings every day. Here are practical tips to help your Ford truck or SUV sip fuel more efficiently on daily commutes, work hauls, and weekend adventures.
1. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure and Alignment
Underinflated tires are one of the biggest fuel wasters. Check pressure monthly (best in the morning, when tires are cold) using the recommended PSI on the driver’s door jamb sticker. Properly inflated tires reduce rolling resistance and can improve fuel economy by up to 3–5%.
Also, schedule regular wheel alignments, especially after hitting potholes on Idaho backroads. Misaligned wheels cause drag that hurts efficiency and wears tires faster. Our service team will be happy to check and correct both quickly during routine visits.
2. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently. Follow the Ford-recommended maintenance schedule:
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Replace air filters when dirty; a clogged filter forces the engine to work harder
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Use the correct motor oil grade (synthetic options often help in varying temperatures)
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Change spark plugs and fuel filters at recommended intervals
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Keep the cooling system in top shape to prevent the engine from running hotter than necessary
For trucks and SUVs with EcoBoost® engines or hybrid powertrains (like the Maverick), staying current on service maximizes their efficiency advantages.
3. Adopt Smart Driving Habits
How you drive affects fuel economy more than you might think:
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Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking; smooth, steady speeds save the most fuel
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Use cruise control on highways for consistent RPMs
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Remove unnecessary weight from the bed or cargo area; every extra pound you carry can reduce fuel efficiency
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Minimize roof rack use when not needed; cargo stored up there increases aerodynamic drag
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In cold weather, limit long idling; modern Fords warm up quickly
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For stop-and-go driving around town, gentle throttle inputs make a real difference
4. Use Ford Technology and Features Wisely
Many current Ford models include helpful efficiency tools:
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The available FordPass app lets you monitor fuel economy, locate the cheapest nearby gas, and precondition the cabin remotely to reduce idling
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Select Eco or Normal drive modes when available and appropriate
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Hybrid models like the Maverick deliver impressive MPG right from the factory; pair built-in efficiency with light-footed driving for best fuel economy
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Keep windows up and use the AC sparingly on the highway when it’s not needed; at lower speeds, cracked windows can sometimes be more efficient
Proper use of these features turns your Ford into an even smarter partner for daily life and recreation.
5. Consider Aerodynamics and Accessories
Reduce drag by keeping the tailgate closed on trucks when possible and removing bulky aftermarket accessories when not in use. If you frequently haul gear, look into Ford aerodynamic bed covers or tonneau options that can help improve highway mileage.
Our parts department carries genuine Ford accessories designed to work with your specific model without hurting efficiency.
When to Visit the Dealership
While all of these measures may seem minor, added up together and incorporated into your driving habits, they can help you maximize fuel efficiency without encroaching one bit on your driving pleasure and fun excursions.
Ford trucks and SUVs already offer strong capability and smart engineering, and fuel efficiency is one of Ford’s priorities when designing new vehicles. Innovations such as our EcoBoost® technology and streamlined designs all work to give Ford customers better fuel economy while still providing them with SUVs and trucks that can meet their driving and hauling needs.
If you want to find out if your engine is running at peak performance, schedule a professional efficiency check with our service department. Our technicians can perform a fuel system cleaning, inspect for dragging brakes, test the oxygen sensors, and ensure everything is optimized for Idaho’s elevation and climate. Many customers see noticeable gains after a simple service visit.
To learn more about your vehicle’s condition or to explore our current inventory of fuel-efficient models, contact Mike White Ford or visit one of our showrooms in Coeur d’Alene or Sandpoint to talk to one of our team members or take a test drive. Our team is happy to review your vehicle’s performance data, recommend personalized improvements, and help you save at the pump while enjoying everything North Idaho has to offer.