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The price of fuel - petrol, diesel and electricity - are currently at record highs and with the cost of living set to rise even more into the coming winter, many of us are looking to find ways to economise, and this includes saving fuel. There are a number of simple ways in which to save money on fuel.
Where To Fill Up Your Car
Probably the most obvious starting point is to find the cheapest petrol station possible; filling up your car at your local supermarket will, in most cases, be a few pence cheaper than an oil company-owned forecourt. There are also websites that offer a fuel price checker, such as Confused.com, so you can check your local area to find the cheapest forecourt.
Driving Economically
Driving style can make a big difference to fuel economy. Modifying your style, if necessary, is another way to help to save money and become a more efficient driver.
Speed
The higher the speed, the greater the consumption of fuel, driving at 70mph rather than at 80mph on the motorway will consume less fuel.
Maintaining a steady speed, keeping moving and not losing momentum will burn less fuel and make a significant difference to fuel economy.
When on the road, it is good to be aware of habits and aspects of the environment that may result in additional fuel consumption – these include steep inclines, sharp acceleration, heavy braking, stopping and starting. Of course, some of these things are impossible to avoid, such as stopping at a red light or travelling up a steep hill that is part of your journey, but there are ways to minimise the effects.
Anticipate The Road Ahead
Read the road and traffic ahead - anticipating change is much more economical than sudden braking or gearing down for acceleration. For example, slowing down steadily on an approach to traffic lights or a roundabout can help to avoid coming to a full stop, likewise, slowing down naturally or in advance will also save more fuel than slamming on the brakes at the last moment. Accelerating in advance of a hill can help to gain momentum to power up and avoid gearing down so soon, again helping to saving fuel.
Drive Gently
Gentle driving at a slow and steady speed and changing gears earlier rather than later is more energy efficient. Although it may be tempting to put your foot down and enjoy some rapid acceleration, this will only increase fuel consumption.
In Car Systems & Fuel Consumption
Air Conditioning (AC) and heating systems consume fuel in order to operate. AC in particular will add significantly to fuel consumption. Although it should be noted that when driving at higher speeds, using the AC may be more economical than having the windows open, as the additional drag may consume more fuel.
Check The Tyres
Both overinflated and under-inflated tyres can also put a strain on fuel economy, making it important to ensure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure at all times.
Avoid Short Journeys
Short journeys use more fuel, especially with diesel engines – wherever possible, avoid short trips.
Lighten The Load
Empty the boot and remove any unnecessary excess weight carried in the car, this will help to reduce any weight-related drag and make the vehicle more efficient. This includes removing roof bars and roof boxes when they are not in use, as the resistance and additional weight only adds to fuel consumption.
Vehicle Maintenance
Ensure that your vehicle is regularly serviced and well maintained at all times, this can be helpful in ensuring that fuel consumption does not increase due to other faulty components of the car.
Our Services
We offer comprehensive car servicing that includes the following:
- Servicing - for all makes servicing
- Bosch Car Service Centre
- MOTs, for cars, motorcycles, quads, minibuses and light goods vehicles
- Garage/Workshop, for car servicing, replacements & repairs
- Car Exhausts & Car Batteries
- Air Conditioning Servicing
- Electronic Diagnostics
- Tyres & wheel alignment
- Bodyshop, for paint and bodywork repairs
For more information on our services, or for advice on an unexplained increase in fuel consumption in your vehicle, get in touch today.