10 Fuel-Saving Tips

With fuel prices, e-tolls, and other price increases we need to start getting smart and find ways to cut costs. So I’ve collected a few fuel saving tips that could help.

1.     Change gears efficiently:

Move up to the highest gear as soon as appropriate.  When you drive slowly in a higher gear, you'll burn less fuel;

2.     Drive smoothly:

Don't drive aggressively and avoid hard acceleration.  You'll burn up to a third less fuel if you drive smoothly;

3.     Avoid sudden braking:

Keep a good distance from the car in front of you and avoid braking too hard as this will use more fuel when you have to accelerate afterwards;

4.     Make sure your tyres are properly inflated:

Check your tyres regularly and ensure that they are correctly inflated; flat tyres cause more friction on the road putting a heavier load on the engine;

5.     Avoid over revving your car:

Don't over-rev when you're pulling away or accelerating. Never 'redline' the rev counter;

6.     Avoid carrying excess weight:

Empty your boot out now and again and clear your car of unnecessary items;

7.     Switch off your engine when it’s not in use:

Avoid excess idling, it burns fuel unnecessarily.  Turn the engine off until you need it again;

8.     Use air-conditioning sparingly:

Air-conditioning puts extra strain on your engine and can increase your fuel consumption by 8%. Rather use your car's internal ventilation system where possible;

9.     Keep your engine well tuned and serviced:

Service your car regularly - a poorly maintained engine with dirty dark plugs can increase your fuel consumption by up to 50%;

10.  Avoid high speeds:

High speeds = more wind resistance = greater fuel consumption. Keep it slow.