Fuel Saving Tips

TYRES

Check tyre pressures weekly: Tyres should be properly inflated. This increases fuel consumption.

WEIGHT  

Remove unnecessary weight: Is the boot full of items you don't need.  Increased weight = increased fuel consumption.

DRAG

Consider the aerodynamics: Roof racks, roof boxes, open windows and sunroofs can cause 'drag', which will increase the fuel consumption.

DRIVING STYLE

Braking and heavy acceleration will use more fuel. Drive smoothly; steady speed, maintain a safe, and think ahead. 

ENGINE

Don't leave the engine ticking over: Instead of long warm-up periods, try driving with a light throttle for the first few miles.

SHORT JOURNEYS

When an engine does not reach operating temperature, it uses more fuel. Avoid unnecessary short trips.

AIR CONDITIONING

It increases engine load, so switch it off when possible.

A LIGHT RIGHT FOOT

Use a light foot on the throttle and a steady speed, or 'cruise control' for long journeys.

THE CORRECT GEAR

 Efficient gear changes at the right speed will prevent engine strain. Change gear below 2500rpm on a petrol vehicle, 2000rpm on a diesel vehicle.

REGULAR SERVICING

Dirty air or oil filters and oil or gearbox fluids can all reduce fuel economy. When was your last car grooming serviced?

ALSO READ: Drive Down Motoring Costs

Drive Down Motoring Costs

Having a car is a great way to save money on transportation. Here are some tips on how to drive down motoring costs.

CAR INSURANCE

Car insurance is probably the biggest motoring expense. Increase your savings by reducing your cost of insurance. Set a reminder for a couple of months before your car insurance is due. Learn about motorcycle insurance discounts and other saving tips. Contact an insurance broker and/or search a reputable comparison website.

CAR MAINTENANCE

To minimize car repair costs: check fluid levels and car tyre pressures regularly. A low oil or coolant level can deteriorate an engine. Under or over inflated tyres will cause the tyre to wear unevenly. Under inflated tyres can produce drag, causing the car to use more fuel.

CAR SERVICING

An annual car service is essential. It helps car safety and reliability, which may avoid the cost of a car breakdown.  Clean oil and air filters help to save fuel. Small mechanical problems can be spotted and nipped in the bud, before they become a major problem that isn’t so cheap to fix.  

PRODUCING POWER USES FUEL

The electrical power essential to use lights, air conditioning, demisting and heating, is generated via the engine. Generating this power uses more fuel. You can save fuel by switching off anything you don’t need.

DRIVING WITH CARE

Driving a car at 60mph can typically use 9% less fuel, than driving at 70mph! Drive smoothly and anticipate the road ahead. Your car will use less fuel: if you can slow down when approaching red traffic lights but keep on moving slowly than stopping and starting. Try using a light foot when accelerating, and change gear smoothly when the right speed for the gear, is reached. This uses less fuel than heavy acceleration and allowing the engine to strain in the selected gear.

ALSO READ:  Vehicles General Service Schedule