How to save fuel
Fuel is one of the biggest running costs of a car, and small habits add up over a year. You do not need special equipment to use less: mostly it comes down to how you drive, what you carry and how well the car is maintained.
Driving style
- Accelerate smoothly and avoid harsh starts and sudden braking.
- Look far ahead so you can lift off the accelerator and coast instead of braking late.
- Change up early in a manual car and avoid keeping the engine at very high revs.
- Keep a steady speed where possible. Frequent speeding up and slowing down uses more fuel.
- Avoid long idling. If you will wait for more than a minute or so, switching off the engine usually saves fuel.
Speed
Air resistance grows quickly as speed rises, so fuel use at motorway speed is much higher than at moderate speed. Driving a little slower on long trips is one of the most effective ways to save. Using cruise control on flat, open roads can help keep the speed steady.
Tyre pressure
Under-inflated tyres have more rolling resistance and make the engine work harder. Check the pressure about once a month with cold tyres and keep it at the value recommended for your car. Add the recommended increase when the car is heavily loaded, if the manual advises it.
Weight and drag
- Remove heavy items you do not need from the boot and cabin.
- Take off roof racks, boxes and bike carriers when you are not using them, as they create drag.
- At higher speeds, closed windows are generally more efficient than open ones.
Air conditioning and electrics
The air conditioner puts extra load on the engine, mainly at low speeds and in hot weather. Use it when you need it, but do not set it colder than necessary. Switch off heated seats, heated rear window and other electrical extras when you no longer need them.
Trip planning
Several short trips with a cold engine use more fuel than one combined trip. Combine errands, avoid the busiest hours where you can, and use a navigation app or map to pick a route with fewer stops. Do not drive around looking for the cheapest fuel if the detour costs more than you save.
Maintenance
A well-kept engine runs more efficiently. Follow the service schedule, change the oil with the grade recommended by the maker, and replace a clogged air filter. Check wheel alignment if the car pulls to one side, and fix brakes that drag. Warning lights on the dashboard should be checked, since some faults increase consumption.
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