With fuel prices and everyday living costs continuing to rise, many drivers are looking for practical ways to improve fuel economy and reduce running costs. Small driving habit changes can make a noticeable difference to your miles per gallon (mpg), helping you save money and reduce unnecessary wear on your vehicle.
Here are some simple ways to drive more economically and improve overall fuel efficiency.
Reduce unnecessary weight
Extra weight increases fuel consumption because the engine has to work harder to move the vehicle. Removing unnecessary items from your boot or cabin can help improve fuel economy over time.
Heavy tools, unused equipment, sports gear, or clutter stored in the car all add additional strain to the vehicle. Keeping your car as light as possible can help improve efficiency, especially during regular daily driving.
If you’re also concerned about rising running costs, it’s worth reading Jamjar’s guide on cheap road tax cars and their article explaining car depreciation and vehicle value.
Remove excess aerodynamic drag
Roof racks, roof boxes, and bike carriers can increase aerodynamic drag, particularly at motorway speeds. If these accessories are not being used regularly, removing them can help reduce fuel consumption.
Reducing drag allows the vehicle to move more efficiently through the air, helping improve mpg during longer journeys.
Maintain correct tyre pressure
Correct tyre pressure plays an important role in fuel efficiency and vehicle safety. Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, meaning the engine must work harder to keep the car moving.
Checking your tyre pressures regularly can help improve fuel economy, extend tyre life, and support safer handling on the road.
Use smooth gear changes and acceleration
Driving smoothly and avoiding harsh acceleration can significantly improve fuel economy. In manual vehicles, changing gears efficiently and avoiding unnecessarily high engine revs can help reduce fuel usage.
For automatic vehicles, gradual acceleration and maintaining a steady speed can also improve efficiency and reduce unnecessary strain on the engine.
Many newer vehicles now include dashboard indicators that suggest the most economical time to shift gears.
Stick to speed limits
Driving at higher speeds generally increases fuel consumption. Maintaining a legal and consistent speed can improve fuel efficiency while also reducing wear on tyres and brakes.
Every vehicle performs differently, but smoother driving habits and avoiding sudden braking or acceleration can help improve overall economy.
Use cruise control where appropriate
Cruise control can help maintain a steady speed during motorway driving, reducing unnecessary acceleration and braking.
Keeping a consistent speed often improves fuel efficiency, particularly on longer journeys and flatter roads. However, drivers should still remain alert and adjust speed appropriately for traffic and road conditions.
Regular maintenance matters
Keeping your car properly maintained can also improve fuel economy. Regular servicing, clean filters, correct oil levels, and well-maintained tyres all help the vehicle operate more efficiently.
You can find more vehicle maintenance and ownership advice in our maintenance guidance hub.
If increasing running costs are making you consider changing your vehicle, you can also get an instant valuation through our free online valuation tool.