Saving Money on Petrol and Diesel: 5 Top Tips for Motorists
As the summer months approach, motorists are bracing themselves for another season of high petrol and diesel prices. With prices surging again, it’s essential to find ways to save money on fuel. In this article, we’ll explore five top tips to help you reduce your fuel costs and make the most of your hard-earned cash.
The Current State of Petrol and Diesel Prices
According to the RAC, petrol and diesel prices in Britain are “far higher than they should be” due to wholesale costs falling since the end of April. Retailers’ margins are 14p per litre for petrol and 16p per litre for diesel, significantly higher than the long-term average of 8p per litre. This means that drivers are paying the price, with no signs of relief in sight.
Fuel prices are on the rise again
Tip 1: Check Your Tyre Pressure
Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential for vehicle efficiency. Underinflated tyres can lower mileage and increase fuel usage. Proper inflation improves vehicle safety and extends their life. It’s recommended to check tyre pressure monthly.
Proper tyre pressure can improve fuel efficiency
Tip 2: Keep Your Windows Closed at High Speeds
At higher speeds, keeping windows closed reduces aerodynamic drag. While the impact on fuel efficiency can vary depending on vehicle design and driving conditions, reducing drag helps maintain better fuel economy at highway speeds.
Tip 3: Turn Off the Air Conditioning
Air conditioning can increase fuel consumption by using significant engine power. When you first get into your vehicle, open the window to lower the temperature of the cabin. Then, if you use the air conditioner, it won’t have to work as hard to cool the car down. Likewise, it’s more efficient to switch to air conditioning when driving at speeds over 40mph.
Tip 4: Avoid Idling
An idling engine burns fuel without moving, which wastes petrol and increases wear and tear on the engine. To avoid unnecessary fuel consumption, it’s recommended to turn off the engine during prolonged stops.
Tip 5: Remove Unnecessary Weight from Your Vehicle
Extra weight in a vehicle causes it to consume more fuel. Reducing the weight can improve the car’s miles per gallon.
Removing unnecessary weight can improve fuel efficiency
Conclusion
With these five top tips, you can start saving money on petrol and diesel today. By implementing these simple changes, you can reduce your fuel costs and make the most of your hard-earned cash. Remember, every little bit counts, and these tips can add up to make a significant difference in the long run.
