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At Ernie’s Inc., we know how much our customers value the open road—and we also know how quickly fuel costs can add up during those long summer trips. Whether you're heading to the coast, the mountains, or somewhere in between, improving your RV’s fuel efficiency can make a big difference.
We hear a lot of great questions from our customers, so we’ve gathered some of the most frequently asked ones and answered them here, along with some easy, road-tested tips to help you stretch your fuel budget a little farther.
Q: What’s a “good” MPG for my RV?
Great question—and the answer depends on the size and type of your RV.
Class A motorhomes average 6–10 MPG
Class B camper vans can get 18–25 MPG
Class C RVs usually see 10–15 MPG
Towables (like travel trailers or fifth wheels) will affect your tow vehicle’s mileage based on weight and aerodynamics
If you’re getting less than average, it might be time to look at your driving habits—or have a technician check for mechanical issues affecting performance.
Q: Does tire pressure really affect fuel economy?
Yes—a lot!
Under-inflated tires create more rolling resistance, which forces your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Check your tire pressure regularly, especially before long trips or when temperatures fluctuate.
Pro tip from the Ernie’s team: Keep a digital tire pressure gauge in your glove box and check tires when they’re cold for the most accurate readings.
Q: How much does weight impact fuel efficiency?
Every extra pound counts.
The more weight you’re hauling, the more strain on your engine—and the more fuel you’ll burn. Take time before your trip to:
Empty tanks and dump excess water if you don’t need it yet
Leave non-essentials at home
Secure cargo to reduce drag and improve airflow
We also recommend checking your RV’s gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) and making sure you're not exceeding it.
Q: Can engine maintenance improve my MPG?
Absolutely. A well-maintained engine runs cleaner, cooler, and more efficiently. Something as simple as a dirty air filter or worn spark plugs can decrease your mileage noticeably.
Our team at Ernie’s can perform routine maintenance checks to keep your engine performing at its best. We look at fuel filters, oxygen sensors, air filters, and everything in between.
Q: What are some easy tips I can use right now to save fuel?
We’ve got you covered. Here are our favorite fuel-saving tips from the road:
✅ Use cruise control when safe to do so—smooth speeds reduce fuel consumption
✅ Avoid aggressive acceleration and hard braking
✅ Travel light and keep roof-mounted cargo to a minimum
✅ Keep your RV tuned up and up to date on all service intervals
✅ Plan your route to avoid backtracking, heavy traffic, or steep grades when possible
Let’s Keep You Rolling Smoothly
At Ernie’s, we don’t just repair RVs—we’re here to help you get the most out of your adventures. If you have questions about your RV’s fuel efficiency, maintenance, or performance, our expert team is ready to help.
👉 Schedule a service appointment today
📍 Serving Olympia, WA, and the greater Pacific Northwest
🚐 We take care of your RV—so you can take care of the journey.