Saving at the Pumps: UK Driving Tips for Better Fuel Efficiency

With unstable fuel prices in the UK, learning how to drive more efficiently has become more important than ever. Not only can good driving habits help save you money at the petrol station, but they are also better for the environment. Follow these top tips to improve your fuel economy.

Drive Smoothly

One of the best things you can do to save fuel is drive smoothly. Aggressive acceleration, braking and speeding can increase how much petrol your car consumes. Accelerating gently from a stop and coasting towards red lights and stop signs will allow you to brake less. This uses less fuel getting back up to speed. Going the speed limit also maximises fuel efficiency as going faster increases wind resistance. Modern cars even show your current miles per gallon (mpg) on the dashboard display to help guide smooth and eco-friendly driving.

Use Cruise Control on Motorways

When driving at a constant speed on A-roads and motorways, make sure to utilise cruise control. This takes minor throttle adjustments out of your hands, keeping acceleration to a minimum. 65-70mph allows cruise control to maintain a steady pace and consistent consumption. Also be mindful not to constantly override your cruise control as this negatively impacts fuel savings.

Remove Extra Weight

The heavier your car, the more fuel it takes to accelerate and climb hills. While you can’t remove essentials or unwanted passengers, try to avoid carrying unnecessary items, especially heavy tools, gear and luggage. An extra 45 kilograms in your boot cuts fuel economy by around 2%, so consider if you genuinely need certain items in your daily driving. Saving weight allows your engine and fuel to work less hard moving your vehicle.

Reduce Idling

Sitting stationary with the engine on may be convenient, but it guzzles petrol. Whether you’re parking up to check your phone or waiting to collect someone, turn the ignition off. Modern cars are designed to restart effortlessly so there is rarely a need to idle. Limit idling to 30 seconds in winter before gently driving away. Also avoid drive-thru and car washes where idling is enforced, and switch off at the pumps when filling up. Reducing time spent idling improves the economy of your vehicle.

Avoid Short Trips

Short trips from a cold start can almost halve your miles per gallon compared to longer drives on a warm engine. The first mile or so consumes excess fuel to get the engine up to operating temperature. Condense smaller trips into a single longer journey whenever possible. Also walk, cycle or take public transport for short hops under two miles to save fuel.

Check Tyre Pressures

Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance with the road, forcing the engine to work harder moving your car. This directly translates into more gallons burned per mile. Invest in a pressure gauge and check monthly as tyres naturally lose PSI over time. Check your owner’s manual for the correct inflation level. Filling to this optimum level reduces tyre deformation improving economy by up to 3%. Don’t forget the spare (if you have one!)

Use Air Conditioning Sparingly

Many drivers fire up the air con as soon as they start their car for the temperature rises, but running A/C forces the engine to use more fuel to maintain comfort. Instead, at lower speeds keep the windows down avoiding the compressor where possible. Air con only becomes economical at higher speeds due to open windows increasing drag. Also check your A/C gas annually as leaks directly impact A/C fuel consumption.

Stick To Service Intervals

Skipping oil changes and vehicle check-ups negatively affects miles per gallon. Old oil and transmission fluid cause higher friction bleeding away engine power. A faulty oxygen sensor, clogged air filter or sagging belts also reduces performance increasing petrol usage. Stick religiously to your manufacturer service schedule to keep components running efficiently. 

Shop Around for Fuel

Petrol and diesel prices can vary wildly even between neighbourhood stations. Sites like PetrolPrices.com allow you to compare costs in your area and highlight the current cheapest. A little time spent searching and slightly longer journey can lead to impressive savings with consistently cheaper fuel. Loyalty schemes also help lower prices for regular customers. And premium fuels offer little real economy benefit for standard cars so stick to regular unleaded.

Think Ahead

Good driving involves reading the road and anticipating situations rather than simply reacting. Tailgate larger vehicles on inclines forcing unnecessary accelerating. Look ahead to junctions considering a smooth coast rather than continuing at speed. Time green lights to avoid completely stopping where possible. Thinking and planning ahead keeps momentum maximising the fuel you have already burned.

Following these tips will ensure your driving style is as fuel efficient as possible. Saving petrol not only helps the environment but also protects your wallet from rising prices at the pump. Drive smoothly, monitor your mpg display and think ahead to get the most from every fuel stop. With some small changes to your habits behind the wheel, enjoying cheaper journeys is easy.