How to Cut Your Fuel Costs

Updated 29 August 2024 | Originally Published 30 May 2019

Easy Ways to Save Money on Fuel: Drive Smarter and More Efficiently

We’re all looking for ways to save money, and cutting down on fuel costs is a great place to start. Whether you’re a daily commuter or an occasional driver, making your car more fuel-efficient and adjusting your driving habits can lead to significant savings. With just a few simple changes, you could save up to £300 a year on fuel.

Optimize Your Car for Better Fuel Efficiency

Maintain the Correct Tyre Pressure

One of the easiest ways to improve your car’s fuel efficiency is by maintaining the correct tyre pressure. Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption, costing you more at the pump. According to the RAC, properly inflated tyres can boost your fuel efficiency by up to 2%.

You can find the recommended tyre pressure in your car’s manual or inside the driver’s door frame. Make it a habit to check your tyre pressure regularly—every week or two, and always before a long journey. It’s a quick and easy check that can save you money in the long run.

Reduce Extra Weight

A lighter car uses less fuel, so it’s time to declutter. We often accumulate unnecessary items in the boot, glove box, and other storage areas. By keeping only what you need in the car, you can reduce weight and improve your fuel efficiency.

Remove Roof Racks When Not in Use

If you occasionally use a roof rack or top box, make sure to remove it when it’s not needed. Even when empty, roof racks add extra weight and create wind resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel.

Be Mindful of Your Fuel Tank

Fuel is heavy, and carrying a full tank adds extra weight to your car. For optimal efficiency, consider filling up to only half or three-quarters of the tank, especially if you’re just driving around town. Just be sure you have enough fuel for your journey to avoid running out unexpectedly.

Drive More Efficiently

The way you drive has a big impact on how much fuel you use. The key is to drive smoothly, avoiding sudden braking and acceleration.

Use Cruise Control Wisely

Cruise control can be a useful tool for saving fuel, but it’s best reserved for motorways or long, flat stretches of road. On hilly or winding roads, cruise control can actually cause your car to use more fuel. Use it selectively to maximize your savings.

Accelerate Gently

Aggressive driving, particularly rapid acceleration, is one of the biggest fuel wasters. To be more fuel-efficient, accelerate gently and steadily. When starting off, avoid flooring the accelerator. Instead, build up speed gradually and aim to reach the highest gear as soon as possible, keeping the engine revs low—around 2000 rpm. The faster your engine spins, the more fuel it consumes.

Keep Moving, If Possible

Frequent stops and starts can drain your fuel tank quickly. Try to keep your car moving by anticipating traffic flow and adjusting your speed accordingly. By staying aware of the road ahead and avoiding sudden braking, you’ll achieve a smoother, more fuel-efficient drive.

Plan Your Journeys

Efficient driving isn’t just about what happens on the road—it starts before you even leave the house. Combining several short trips into one longer journey can save fuel because your engine runs more efficiently when it’s fully warmed up.

If possible, plan your route so that the furthest destination is first. This allows your engine to warm up quickly, making each subsequent leg of the journey more efficient. If you start with the closest destination, your engine may take longer to reach its optimal temperature, using more fuel in the process.

Conclusion

Saving money on fuel doesn’t have to be complicated. By making your car more fuel-efficient and adjusting your driving habits, you can enjoy significant savings over the course of a year. These small changes add up, helping you keep more money in your pocket while also being kinder to the environment. So next time you hit the road, remember these tips—and watch your fuel costs go down.