Jul 6, 2017
Want to save money on your fuel bill? When it comes to our cars we spend on average £21 a week on fuel which equates to £84 a month according to The Daily Express recent survey. So naturally, we are inclined to cut corners and save where we can, not to mention It can feel great making your hard earned cash stretch that little bit further. So, any hacks that we can implement in our lives to save money and of course help the environment, we welcome with open arms.
There are obvious answers to cutting your fuel costs such as buying cheaper fuel or not driving in rush hour times. Obviously, this will save fuel however it’s not always a choice for those of us who work 9-5. For those that do it's even more important to look out for opportunities on how to save fuel. MyCarNeedsA has a few tips that are sure to optimise your fuel consumption.
Take motorway routes to avoid stop starting, or if you are in rush hour and the motorways are busy then try using some of the smaller B roads. Any opportunity that you can take a route that will be a little more continuous or flowing. The fewer the stop and starts, the less fuel your car will use.
If you are on a motorway try using cruise control if you have it, keeping at a consistent speed of around 50-55mph in a high gear is a great way to save fuel and it's also easier on your tyres. A consistent speed is key for longer journeys and saving fuel.
If you are in traffic try not to rev using your accelerator, try stopping and starting slowly, find the biting point and take off slowly. The same rule applies for stopping, brake gently and stay away from tailgating and tapping on the brakes frequently as this will waste fuel.
Turn the air conditioning off when it is not needed, air conditioning increases fuel consumption, especially at low speeds as the engine has to work a little harder than usual. There has always been the controversial argument, is it better to have the air conditioning on or wind down the windows? well, the answer is - it depends on your driving conditions.
If it’s a hot day, use the air conditioning for high-speed driving. Only open the windows when driving around the town and on routes where the car does not get the opportunity to pick up much speed. Having your air conditioning serviced every 2-3 years will ensure it runs more efficiently, which in turn takes the pressure off the engine, so when you are using your car air conditioning, your fuel efficiency will be better.
Using the right gears and brushing up on your habits can also improve your car's fuel consumption. Most drivers on the road have bad habits, some drivers do not use indicators and frequently we see drivers using their phone when on the move, but more often drivers do not drive in the right gear to match the speed of the car which can really impact fuel efficiency.
Higher gears at low speed and low gears and high speed will cause the car to use more fuel. Shift the gears carefully and in line with the speed of the vehicle, this will ensure that the engine is not overworking.
The weight in your car is another way to save fuel, the lighter the car, the less fuel the car will consume. This includes when the car boot is full of unnecessary items, try giving it a clear out to save fuel. Extras on the car such as roof racks or bike racks should be removed and stored at home if they are not being used.
Did you know tyre pressure is another way to get the most out of your fuel? Keeping your tyres at the optimal pressure increases the travelling distance. The pressure in the tyre will drop naturally especially after drastic changes in temperature, always check your tyre pressure after a seasonal change. Only inflate your tyres before a journey and when the tyre is cool. MyCarNeedsA has lots of garages and fast fit tyre centres who can check your tyres and advise which tyres best suits your car and budget.
Regular servicing includes the change of air and fuel filters, oil, spark plugs, antifreeze and brake fluid these are all included in a full service or major service. A service basically renews some of the important organs in the car and overall improves the efficiency of the car, which in turn has a direct impact on fuel consumption.6.
If you need a service there are plenty of service providers who can provide a full or interim service on your car. Just Enter your registration and get quotes to your email from MyCarNeedsA.com, chose the garage you want and look forward to saving money on fuel costs.
Have you any tips on how to save fuel? Share them with us on our MyCarNeedsA Facebook or Twitter page.
