Tips & Tricks to Maximizing Fuel Efficiency in Your Nissan
Let’s be honest: gas prices in Arizona have been known to spike without warning, especially during our long, hot summers. If you drive a Nissan, you’ve already made a smart choice. Fuel-efficient Nissan cars are known for combining reliability with great fuel economy. But even the most efficient vehicle can sip a little less gas with some extra know-how.
Whether you're cruising through the I-10 corridor or stuck in Scottsdale traffic during rush hour, there are plenty of easy ways to stretch your MPG. And yes—this is for you, too, weekend warriors headed to Payson, Sedona, or wherever the pine trees call.
Here are some friendly, practical tips for how to improve fuel efficiency in your Nissan, right here in the desert southwest.
Are Nissans Good on Gas?
We get this question a lot. And the truth is, yes, Nissans are good on gas. From the peppy little Versa to the versatile Rogue and even the sporty Altima, many Nissans offer impressive mileage without sacrificing comfort or performance. Nissan has been engineering efficiency into its vehicles for years, and Arizona drivers are reaping the benefits, especially when that summer fuel gauge feels like it’s draining faster than your water bottle.
If you're wondering about Nissan’s most fuel-efficient cars, the Versa and Sentra are top contenders for city drivers, while the Altima shines on long drives up and down I-17.
10 Tips for Smart Driving in the Valley and Beyond
When and how you drive and how you care for your Nissan affect your car’s performance, including miles per gallon.
Tip #1: Drive Early (Or Late) to Beat the Heat and Traffic
Here in the Phoenix Metro area, summer temperatures often soar past 110°F by midday. Not only is that tough on you, it’s tough on your car. Engines run more efficiently in moderate temperatures, and excessive heat can cause your A/C to work overtime, eating up gas in the process.
Try this: Plan errands for early mornings or after sunset, especially in the warmer months. You'll dodge the heat and traffic, both of which help improve fuel economy.
Tip #2: Don’t Be Idle
Idling gobbles gas – up to 1/2 gallon per hour, according to AAA Arizona.
Do this: If you’re going to be idling for more than a minute, turn off the engine if it’s safe. It uses less fuel to restart a warm engine than it does to sit there and idle.
Tip #3: Curb Your Need for Speed
Speed limits are your friend when it comes to getting the most from each gallon of gas. Higher speeds mean greater fuel consumption. You might get to your destination sooner, but it’ll cost you more in the long run.
It’s not just speed that affects your MPG. Hard acceleration and braking take their toll, too.
Tweak your driving habits: Keep your lead foot off the gas and brake pedals. You don’t need to go from 0 to full speed the second the light turns green. And you shouldn’t need to stop on a dime. (If you find yourself in that position often, we need to have a different conversation.) Smooth acceleration, driving evenly—use your cruise control when you can—and gentle braking will add miles to each tank.
Tip #4: Keep Your Tires in Check (Arizona Roads Are No Joke)
With hot pavement and rough roads, especially in areas like Surprise or South Mountain, tire wear happens faster in Arizona than in many places. Driving on underinflated tires is one of the sneakiest fuel wasters out there.
Pro tip: Check your tire pressure at least once a month. If you live in Mesa, Chandler, or anywhere that gets the full brunt of the Valley heat, consider checking them more often in summer. Always use the recommended PSI listed inside your driver’s door.
Tip #5: Keep Your Nissan Clean—Inside and Out
It sounds simple, but it works. The more stuff you keep in your trunk (we see you, emergency beach chairs and hiking packs), the harder your engine has to work. And let’s not forget that layer of desert dust on your car doesn’t just look bad—it can reduce aerodynamics, especially at highway speeds.
Do this: Clear out your cargo area and give your car a wash every couple of weeks. Yes, even if it’s just a quick rinse at the car wash off Bell Road or a water-saving brush-down in your driveway.
Tip #6 Use the Right Fuel and Oil—Stick to the Basics
Arizona’s elevation varies quite a bit, from metro Phoenix to weekend destinations like Prescott and Flagstaff. You might be tempted to switch fuel grades depending on where you're headed, but stick to what your Nissan manual recommends—usually regular unleaded.
Using higher-octane fuel doesn’t boost MPG unless your car specifically requires it. The same goes for engine oil; use the recommended viscosity for your Nissan to keep it humming through desert drives and mountain switchbacks.
Tip #7: Plan Smart for Weekend Getaways
We love a good road trip as much as anyone. But hopping in the car and winging it can lead to wasted gas. And wasted time.
Fuel-saving idea: Use your Nissan’s navigation system or apps like Google Maps to avoid high-traffic areas, especially when leaving the city on a Friday. Consider stopping for gas in less congested areas (like Goodyear or Buckeye) where prices are often lower than Scottsdale or Tempe.
Also, combine errands or stops into one trip if you're heading out. Upping your MPG is all about cutting down extra miles and idle time.
Tip #8: Use Your A/C Wisely (Yes, Even Here)
We get it. Telling someone in Phoenix not to blast their A/C feels borderline criminal in July. But here’s the deal: air conditioning can be a real fuel hog in city driving, where you're doing a lot of stopping and starting.
Try this: Roll your windows down for a minute to let the superheated air out before you turn on the A/C.
Related: Prepare Your Car's AC for Arizona Summer
Tip #9: Stay on Top of Basic Maintenance
Arizona’s desert climate can be harsh on car components. Your Nissan may be fuel efficient, but only if it’s running in top condition.
Watch for:
- Dirty air filters (which clog faster thanks to dust)
- Worn spark plugs (especially in high-mileage vehicles)
- Low fluids (they evaporate faster in our heat)
Regular oil changes and tune-ups are key. Consider setting reminders to sync up with Arizona’s seasons—maybe one before the summer heat and another before winter travel.
Click here to schedule service at Coulter Nissan in Surprise.
Tip #10: Think About an Upgrade
If your car is older and fuel economy just isn't cutting it anymore, it might be time to look into a newer, more fuel-efficient Nissan. The latest models offer smart engine technology, better aerodynamics, and features like Eco Mode or idle stop/start systems that help save fuel.
Here are a few top options:
- Nissan Versa: Inexpensive, reliable, and gets around 40 MPG on the highway
- Nissan Sentra: Smooth ride, great for Tempe-to-Phoenix commutes
- Nissan Altima: Perfect if you split your time between city driving and road trips
- Nissan Kick: Compact SUV comfort with small car efficiency
- Nissan Ariya: 100% electric—and charging stations are growing in number across the Valley
Considering Your First New Nissan?
If you're shopping for a new Nissan, you're already on the right track. From the budget-friendly Versa to the versatile Altima, there's something for every driver. Looking for a car that’ll get you around town without frequent stops at the pump? The Versa offers excellent city MPG, while the Altima is perfect for those longer trips through the Arizona desert. For a little more space, check out the Rogue or Kicks—small SUVs that combine fuel efficiency with room for your gear.
Thinking About Going Electric?
If you're eyeing an electric vehicle, the Nissan ARIYA should be on your radar. With its sleek design, impressive range, and advanced technology, the Ariya is perfect for Arizona drivers who want to go green without sacrificing style or performance. As charging stations continue to grow across the Valley, you’ll find it easier than ever to keep your Ariya powered up. Plus, without the need for gas, you’ll be saving on fuel while enjoying a smooth, quiet ride.
Wrap-Up: Every Drop Counts
Here in Arizona, we know a thing or two about conserving resources. And while we might joke about frying an egg on the sidewalk in July, wasting gas isn't funny when it hits your wallet. The good news? Nissan’s got your back with engineering that’s already a step ahead—and with a few adjustments to how, when, and where you drive, you’ll be getting even more miles out of every tank.
So, whether you’re navigating Camelback Road or heading up north for cooler temps, use these tips to keep your fuel-efficient Nissan running smart, lean, and ready for every mile ahead.