A MOTORING expert has given their top tips to save money on fuel as petrol prices are on the rise again.
The price of oil is currently at a 10-month high and that is being reflected in the price drivers pay at the forecourt.
GettyThe price of petrol in the UK has risen by around 8 per cent since July (stock image)[/caption]
Since July, the price of petrol has risen by around 8 per cent, with the average currently around 156.11p per litre, according to the RAC, and further rises are expected.
The experts at Xcite Car Leasing though have come up with a number of driving tips to make your fuel go further – and avoid a hefty £2,500 fine.
Check your tyre pressure
One check you should do regularly is to check the tyre pressure.
This is because tyres that are not inflated to the correct level can reduce your fuel economy by as much as 5 per cent.
It’s recommended if you are driving a lot that you check your tyre pressure around once a month.
Having the wrong tyre pressure can also lead to a £2,500 fine according to the Highway Code, so it’s best to check before a journey to avoid this.
Keep your windows closed if driving over 40mph
The more aerodynamic your car is, the better the fuel economy will be.
Having your windows open increases drag on the vehicle and creates stronger wind resistance.
In general, having your windows open at lower speeds doesn’t have a massive impact but if you are driving over 40 mph it’s recommended to close them.
Turn off the air conditioning, especially when travelling at slower speeds
Using your air conditioning, or heating on colder days, requires engine power so will have an impact on your fuel consumption.
This is especially true if you are travelling at low speeds.
If it is a particularly warm day, it’s recommended to use the air conditioning on a low setting over opening the window, as the effect on your fuel consumption is less.
Avoid idling
An idling engine is still burning fuel. If you are in slow moving or stop-start traffic, consider putting your hand brake on and turning your engine off.
Same applies when picking someone or dropping someone off, consider shutting off the engine if you are stopped for a long period.
Idling for an hour can waste half a gallon of fuel, or around 2.3 litres.
If you have a modern car with stop-start technology then use this, it will automatically reduce the time you spend with an idling engine if used correctly.
Remove unnecessary weight from your vehicle
The heavier your vehicle is the more fuel it will take to move it.
If you are travelling with a roof box, bike racks or excess luggage, make sure you remove it when you have arrived at your destination to avoid using more petrol.
Some 50kg of extra weight can increase fuel consumption by 1-2 per cent, so best for efficiency to remove everything you won’t be using that day.
Keep to the speed limit
Speeding can increase your fuel consumption, and of course be dangerous to yourself and other road users.
Keep to the speed limits and use cruise control if your car has this function to maintain a steady speed.
It’s recommended you set your cruise control a few miles below the actual speed limit in case your odometer is slightly off.
Clean or replace your air filters
Dirty air filters cause your engine to work harder than it has too, which means more fuel is used.
With the filters being blocked from dirt, it can affect fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent.
You should follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to change these as needed to help boost your fuel economy.
Air filters should need changing every 12,000- 15,000 miles.
A clean air filter can improve your acceleration of your vehicle, as dirty filters mean there isn’t enough air getting to your engine so therefore reduces power.
Regularly service your vehicle
Regular maintenance and servicing on your vehicle keep it in the best condition possible and this in turn helps your fuel consumption.
It’s recommended ensuring the vehicle is serviced in line with the manufacturer guidelines and any maintenance work is completed as soon as possible, especially if you are travelling on long journeys.
Accelerate and brake smoothly
Harsh acceleration and braking use a lot of engine power, which uses more fuel.
Not only is this better for the environment to brake and accelerate smoothly, it’s better for your fuel bill.
One way in which you can avoid the need for harsher acceleration and braking is by anticipating the traffic ahead.
If you’re on a road that you know has several traffic lights over a short distance or in a long queue of traffic, rather than stopping and starting try travelling at a lower speed, this keeps your vehicle rolling and removes the constant stopping and starting that you might otherwise use.
Make combined journeys
A hot engine is a more efficient one, because your battery works better in warmer conditions.
One way that you can improve your overall fuel economy is by combining several smaller trips into one longer journey.
Will Bullen of Xcite Car Leasing said: “We know a lot of people are looking to save money right now and these simple hacks are a great way to cut costs at the petrol pump.
“Smooth acceleration and braking are the obvious ones, but we also recommend anticipating traffic lights and slow-moving traffic, rather than flooring it between each stop.
“These small driving adjustments can have a positive impact on both your fuel consumption and bank balance.”
GettyExperts reveal the best ways to make a tank of fuel go further (stock image)[/caption]