With constant fluctuation of fuel prices, drivers are increasingly focused on maximising the efficiency of every litre. Regardless of whether you commute to work, run errands, or embark on long journeys, enhancing fuel efficiency not only reduces costs but also contributes to a lower carbon footprint. Here are some practical fuel-saving tips tailored for UK drivers, aimed at optimising your fuel economy on the road.
1. Keep Your Tyres Properly Inflated
Under-inflated tyres significantly increase rolling resistance, making your engine consume more fuel. To reduce this impact, it is essential to regularly check your tyre pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels. Maintaining proper tyre inflation also extends the lifespan of your tyres, ultimately providing a more cost-effective driving experience. Additionally, properly inflated tyres enhance vehicle safety by improving traction and handling.
2. Drive Smoothly Avoiding Sudden Acceleration
One of the biggest fuel-wasters is aggressive driving. Hard acceleration and sudden braking use more fuel than compared with gradual speed changes. Try to accelerate smoothly and anticipate traffic ahead to avoid unnecessary braking. Keeping a steady speed, especially on motorways, can significantly improve your fuel efficiency, saving your pocket.
3. Reduce Excess Weight and Drag
Carrying unnecessary weight in your boot or back seat forces the engine to work harder, consuming more fuel. If you don’t need heavy items like tools, sports equipment, or luggage, remove them. Similarly, roof racks and boxes create wind resistance, reducing aerodynamics and increasing fuel consumption. Take them off when not in use.
4. Stick to the Speed Limit
Driving at higher speeds increases fuel consumption. For example, driving at 80 mph on a motorway can use up to 25% more fuel than sticking to 70 mph. Therefore, keeping to speed limits ensures not only safer driving but also better fuel efficiency.
5. Avoid Idling Whenever Possible
Letting your car idle for long periods of time wastes fuel unnecessarily. If you find yourself waiting in traffic for more than a minute, consider turning off your engine. Many modern cars have stop-start systems that do this for you automatically, switching off your engine when you’re stationary, saving fuel without any extra effort.
6. Plan Your Route Efficiently
Avoiding heavy traffic, roadworks, and stop-start driving can help reduce your fuel consumption. Using satellite navigation apps with real-time traffic updates can also help you find the most efficient route at that time of day. Another great tip is to combine any errands into one trip to avoid multiple short journeys, since cold engines can use more fuel.
7. Use Cruise Control on Motorways
If your car has cruise control, use it on long, steady drives such as motorway journeys. Maintaining a constant speed prevents unnecessary over acceleration and heavy braking, helping improve your fuel efficiency. However, avoid using cruise control on steep hills, as it may overcompensate and use more fuel.
Remember small changes in your driving style and car maintenance can make a big difference over time, helping you save money while being kinder to the environment.
Need to save money on your car servicing?
Here at MCM Garage near Bath, we’re able to undercut the main dealers such as VW, Audi and Skoda since we’re independent and can source parts from multiple suppliers at competitive rates. Get in touch today if your car needs a service in Bath and why not also visit our sister garage MCMOT Centre when your MOT is due – saving you both time and money getting it all done in the same location!
