7 Ways to Save Money on Fuel
Motorists were buoyed by the Chancellor’s decision to freeze fuel duty for another 12 months in the 2024 Budget, but news that inflation fell less than forecasted, impacted in part by rising fuel prices, shows that petrol costs were still a significant outlay for many households.
Fuel prices continue to be a concern for motorists.
According to Lisa Watson, Director of Sales at Close Brothers Motor Finance, “This will be unwelcome news for motorists who continue to bear the brunt of tough economic conditions. Our research found that more than half (53%) of drivers list rising fuel prices as their main concern in 2024, followed closely by car insurance hikes (52%), so the inflation figures will do little to suppress the mounting economic pressure on motorists.”
With petrol prices still a major cost for motorists, we have rounded up some expert tips on how to cut fuel consumption and save money.
1. Leave more time to get there
According to The AA, reducing your cruising speed on the motorway from 80mph to 70mph could save you up to 25% in fuel, while slowing from 70mph to 60mph saves you another 10%. The easiest way to ensure this happens is to build in longer travelling times, plan for delays at peak travel times and be strategic about when you hit the road for a long journey. As a general rule, experts say 45-50mph is the most efficient speed to drive for fuel efficiency.
Drive at a consistent speed to save fuel.
2. Gently does it
Keep an eye on the road ahead, and make sure you don’t brake or accelerate more than you need to, which will be taxing for your car’s engine. Constantly accelerating and braking harshly means your engine needs to work harder, and as a result, uses more fuel. Drive at a consistent speed, accelerating and braking steadily. Fuel consumption tends to increase when your car exceeds 2,000 to 2,500 revs, according to GoCompare.com.
Avoid harsh braking to save fuel.
3. Don’t use your car as a dumping ground
A lighter car will have a significant effect on your fuel consumption. If it doesn’t need to be in the boot, consider leaving it at home. According to The AA, by changing your driving style and taking out unnecessary heavy goods you could save up to 15% on your fuel consumption, which is equivalent to saving £7.50 from a £50 tank of petrol.
Remove unnecessary items from your car to save fuel.
4. Keep your car well-maintained
Having your car serviced regularly can save you money in the long run as this will ensure that your engine is running at its optimum performance. Even a simple thing like checking your tyre pressures regularly will help. “Under-inflated tyres can result in higher fuel consumption and can affect your car’s handling,” Nick says.
Regular car maintenance can save you money in the long run.
5. Pick your pump wisely!
You could save yourself as much as 6p a litre on average by checking the cheapest place locally to fill up. Don’t assume your local supermarket forecourt has the best deal. Following a Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) investigation earlier this year into overcharging due to weak competition, petrol retailers are working with the CMA to set up a voluntary scheme that allows motorists to compare prices live online.
Compare prices to find the cheapest fuel.
6. Petrol loyalty schemes
Consider signing up to a petrol loyalty scheme, such as Shell Go+, BPme rewards and Texaco Star Rewards for money off fuel. Or take a closer look at the benefits of using your existing supermarket loyalty card schemes to maximum effect. You can also spend and save on petrol via Tesco Clubcard and Sainsbury’s Nectar rewards at their own forecourts.
Sign up to petrol loyalty schemes to save money.
7. Use your aircon wisely
Air conditioning can be useful to help clear condensation inside the car quickly in times of warm weather. But remember to use it sparingly and to switch off once the windows are all clear.
Use your aircon wisely to save fuel.
By following these simple tips, you can cut fuel consumption and save money on your next fill-up.
