How to save money on fuel
For the first time since 2009 petrol prices have dropped below £1 a litre. There is even speculation prices could fall as low as 90 pence a litre. According to PetrolPrices.com cheaper fuel is looking like a near certainty for 2016. It seems there are plenty of savings to be made in 2016 but there are always more to be made, follow these steps to help you get the most for your money.
• Do your research
The easiest way to find the cheapest forecourt in your area for petrol, diesel, LPG and more, is by comparing prices online on a site such as PetrolPrices.com
• Don’t exceed the speed limit
Reducing your speed will reduce engine revs and use less fuel. If you’re travelling at 80 mph rather than 70mph then your car is running inefficiently and will cost you a lot more in fuel. According to the AA, driving at 70mph instead of 80mph could save you up to 25% in fuel
• Check the tyre pressure
The correct tyre pressure is important for efficient fuel consumption as well as road safety. Underinflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by up to 5% while overinflated tyres reduce area contact with the road causing your car to lose vital grip. You can check the correct pressure for the tyres on your vehicle at tyre-pressures.com
• Cut down on air-conditioning
It’s very tempting to leave the air-conditioning on all year. It prevents windows from misting and controls the temperature in the car. However, air conditioning does use quite a bit of fuel. When driving at a slower speed on a hot sunny day, take advantage of the natural cool air. Put the windows down and turn the air-con off
• Maintain your car
Ensuring your car is regularly serviced will maintain engine efficiency to help your car run much better
• Drive sensibly
Reading the road ahead and anticipating the traffic flow will help you keep your car moving which does help reduce fuel consumption. Less breaking and accelerating means less fuel is used. In heavy traffic try not to stop and start too often, drive slowly and smoothly
• Remove unnecessary weight from your car
Carrying extra items will reduce your car’s fuel economy and increase CO2 emissions. Roof racks and boxes, bike carriers and modifications, are all extra weight and use extra fuel. Any extra weight added to the car will add to the expense of running your car
• Don’t get lost
Planning your route and checking your sat nav before you set off could help you avoid getting lost and using valuable fuel driving in circles Familiarising yourself with the route beforehand will help you feel more confident during the journey
• Apps to help you save fuel
There are various apps that will help you plan your journey such as FuelGood, which is free, and iOnRoad. They can measure the breaking distance between you and the car in front, guide you on the optimal speed to drive at and advise you in advance of any collision ahead on your route.