How To Cut Your Petrol & Diesel Costs

According to the RAC, the average cost of filling a tank with petrol has surpassed £100 for the first time, making it more crucial than ever to find the best fuel prices. Additionally, you may cut down the growth of prices if you drive more effectively, consume less fuel, and follow the other tips we've mentioned.

Here is what you need to know…

Remove Additional Weight 

Even when not in use, a roof rack increases wind resistance, which raises drag and puts more strain on the engine. Take it off, along with everything else that is ineffective, if you don't need it. The vehicle will operate significantly more efficiently even if the windows are closed.

Your car needs less energy to accelerate the lighter it is. You can save a little more money by cleaning out the boot and not hauling any extra weight. Any additional weight you carry while riding increases your fuel usage; although reducing the load won't have a huge impact, it will still help.

Check Your Tire Pressure 

Lower tyre pressure causes a car to drag more, requiring more fuel. Therefore, make sure the pressures are correct on a regular basis (overinflation will also use more gasoline), and your car will require less power to move.

The Brake Pedal Burns Money 

Where it's safe, let yourself naturally slow down rather than slamming on the brakes. In essence, when you use the brake, you turn the energy you paid to put into the car into heat. Instead, whenever possible, take advantage of the car's forward momentum; for this, proper road posture is essential. 

If you brake frequently while travelling, you'll eventually need to accelerate more, which will result in using more fuel overall.

Coasting can Cost  

The harder you press the accelerator pedal, the more petrol is consumed. The distance you can go on a tank of gasoline or diesel should greatly increase just by being aware of this and your road position.

Although it can be difficult to estimate exactly how much you could save on fuel by driving more efficiently and making your car more fuel-efficient, the AA reports that when 50 of its staff members participated in an eco-driving trial, they saved an average of 10% in a week - the biggest saving was a whopping 33%. (insert link) 

Utilise Loyalty Schemes

Regular expenses include buying gasoline or diesel, and the annual cost is higher than you might expect at £30 per week or over $1,500 per year. Since so many gas stations (including those at supermarkets) offer some sort of loyalty programme, it's worthwhile to join up for programmes at the forecourts you use the most frequently in order to receive a little more money back.

However, never select a petrol station solely based on its loyalty programme, as the difference is negligible when compared to how fuel costs fluctuate. 

If you need any advice about your finances, feel free to get in touch today!