Fuel economy isn’t determined solely by the car you drive. Your driving habits can have a significant impact on how much fuel you use and how far each tank will take you.
With fuel prices continuing to fluctuate, finding simple ways to improve efficiency can help reduce your running costs and save money over time. The good news is that many fuel-saving techniques require only minor adjustments to the way you drive and maintain your vehicle.
Here are ten practical tips to help improve your fuel efficiency and get more miles from every tank.
1. Plan Your Journeys
Making several short trips can use more fuel than completing multiple errands in one journey. Engines operate most efficiently once they have reached their normal operating temperature, so frequent cold starts can increase fuel consumption.
Planning your route in advance can also help you avoid congestion, reduce unnecessary mileage, and minimise stop-start driving.
2. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly
Under-inflated tyres create additional rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and use more fuel.
Check your tyre pressures regularly and keep them inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended levels, which can usually be found in your owner’s manual or inside the driver’s door frame.
Properly inflated tyres can also improve handling, braking performance, and tyre lifespan.
3. Keep Your Vehicle Well Maintained
Routine maintenance helps your vehicle operate as efficiently as possible. Regular servicing can identify issues that may negatively affect fuel economy, such as worn spark plugs, dirty air filters, or engine management faults.
Keeping your vehicle in good condition can also help prevent costly repairs later on.
4. Change Gears Efficiently
If you drive a manual car, shifting into higher gears smoothly and at the appropriate time can help reduce fuel consumption.
Modern vehicles are designed to operate efficiently at lower engine speeds. Many newer models include gear-shift indicators that suggest the most economical time to change gear.
Avoid holding lower gears longer than necessary, as higher engine revs typically use more fuel.
5. Reduce Unnecessary Weight and Drag
Extra weight means your engine has to work harder.
Remove unnecessary items from your boot and take off roof racks, roof boxes, or bike carriers when they are not in use. These accessories can increase aerodynamic drag and reduce fuel efficiency, particularly at motorway speeds.
6. Avoid Heavy Traffic Where Possible
Stop-start traffic can significantly increase fuel consumption due to constant braking and acceleration.
Where practical, consider travelling outside peak hours or choosing alternative routes to avoid congestion.
Even small reductions in traffic delays can have a positive effect on fuel economy.
7. Accelerate Smoothly
Harsh acceleration uses more fuel than gradual and controlled acceleration.
Aim to build speed progressively while maintaining a steady driving style. Anticipating traffic conditions ahead can also help reduce unnecessary braking and acceleration.
Smooth driving not only improves fuel economy but can also reduce wear on your vehicle’s components.
To help with the environment and your fuel costs, here’s some tips for improving your fuel consumption.
8. Make the Most of Stop-Start Technology
Many modern vehicles are equipped with stop-start systems that automatically switch off the engine when the vehicle is stationary.
If your vehicle has this feature, allowing it to operate as designed can help reduce fuel consumption, particularly in urban traffic.
For vehicles without stop-start technology, follow manufacturer guidance regarding prolonged idling.
9. Look Ahead and Maintain Momentum
Reading the road ahead allows you to anticipate changes in traffic flow and adjust your speed gradually.
Maintaining momentum where it is safe and legal to do so can help reduce unnecessary braking and acceleration, both of which increase fuel usage.
Good observation and forward planning are key elements of economical driving.
10. Use Air Conditioning Sensibly
Air conditioning places an additional load on your engine, which can increase fuel consumption.
Use it when necessary for comfort and visibility, but avoid running it continuously if it is not needed. At lower speeds, opening windows may sometimes be a practical alternative, although at higher speeds open windows can increase aerodynamic drag.
Finding a balance between comfort and efficiency can help reduce fuel usage.
Small Changes Can Deliver Big Savings
Improving fuel efficiency doesn’t necessarily require buying a newer vehicle. By maintaining your car properly and adopting more economical driving habits, you can reduce fuel consumption, lower running costs, and potentially extend the lifespan of your vehicle.
For more advice on maintaining your vehicle and reducing ownership costs, visit our maintenance guidance hub.
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