Money Calculators Hub

Fuel Cost Calculator

Estimate fuel costs for trips and annual driving, and see your environmental impact.

Trip Details

miles

Vehicle & Fuel Information

?
mpg
$
per gallon
?
miles/year

Fuel Cost Estimates

Results update automatically as you change your inputs

How to Use This Calculator

This calculator helps you make informed financial decisions by providing accurate estimates based on the information you provide. Follow these steps:

1

Enter Your Details

Fill in all required fields with your financial information.

2

Adjust Parameters

Use sliders and toggles to customize scenarios and assumptions.

3

View Results

Get instant calculations that update as you change inputs.

4

Compare Options

Try different scenarios to find the best financial solution.

Understanding Fuel Economy and Costs

Fuel costs are a significant part of vehicle ownership. Understanding your vehicle's fuel economy and estimating costs can help you budget for travel and assess the true cost of different vehicles.

Factors Affecting Fuel Consumption

  • Vehicle weight and size: Heavier vehicles typically use more fuel
  • Engine size and type: Larger engines generally consume more fuel
  • Driving habits: Aggressive acceleration, high speeds, and frequent braking increase consumption
  • Maintenance status: Well-maintained vehicles run more efficiently
  • Tire pressure: Underinflated tires increase rolling resistance and fuel consumption
  • Climate control: Using air conditioning increases fuel consumption
  • Terrain and road conditions: Hilly terrain and poor roads can reduce efficiency

Improving Fuel Economy

  • Drive smoothly: Avoid rapid acceleration and hard braking
  • Maintain steady speeds: Use cruise control on highways when possible
  • Observe speed limits: Fuel economy typically decreases significantly above 50-55 mph
  • Reduce idling: Modern vehicles use less fuel restarting than idling for extended periods
  • Remove excess weight: Don't carry unnecessary items in your vehicle
  • Maintain your vehicle: Regular maintenance helps maintain optimal efficiency
  • Check tire pressure: Keep tires properly inflated according to manufacturer specifications

Understanding MPG vs. GPM

Miles per gallon (MPG) is the standard measure of fuel efficiency in the United States, while gallons per mile (GPM) or gallons per 100 miles is actually more useful for comparing the fuel consumption between vehicles.

For example, improving from 10 MPG to 20 MPG saves more fuel over a given distance than improving from 20 MPG to 30 MPG. This is because:

  • 10 MPG = 10 gallons per 100 miles
  • 20 MPG = 5 gallons per 100 miles (saving 5 gallons)
  • 30 MPG = 3.33 gallons per 100 miles (saving only 1.67 gallons compared to 20 MPG)

Environmental Impact

Each gallon of gasoline burned produces about 20 pounds of carbon dioxide (CO2). More efficient vehicles not only save money but also reduce environmental impact.

Alternative fuel vehicles, such as electric vehicles (EVs), hybrid vehicles, and those using renewable fuels can significantly reduce both fuel costs and environmental impact, though their purchase prices may be higher.