10 Fuel Saving Tips

How often does the cost of petrol or diesel come up in conversation? As the cost of fuel sky rockets, we strive for ways to reduce our fuel consumption.

Your fuel usage can be reduced in two ways – by changing the way you drive and by improving the condition of your vehicle. Here are 10 easy-to-use tips that will save you money.

1. Make sure your tyres are inflated properly.
   Under-inflated tyres waste litres of fuel. If your tyres are not inflated correctly, they leave a larger footprint. This creates more friction and increases rolling resistance. Your engine has to work harder, thereby burning more fuel.
    
2. Service your engine regularly.
   Poorly maintained vehicles use more fuel, produce more harmful emissions and wear out more quickly. Make sure you service your vehicle as recommended by the manufacturer.
    
3. Change your filters regularly.
   Old or blocked fuel and air filters can lead to reduced engine performance, increased fuel consumption and even major engine damage.
    
4. Keep your vehicle streamlined and light.
   Roof racks should be removed when not in use. This includes ski racks and simple cross spars. Remove all unnecessary stuff from your boot and inside the car to keep the weight down.
    
5. Turn the engine off when stationary for long periods.
   Idling the engine for long periods wastes fuel. It results in no distance travelled for the fuel consumed.
    
6. Use the air conditioning less.
   Turning off the air conditioner can reduce fuel consumption by 10%, especially in vehicles with small engines.
    
7. Use the cruise control.
   Maintaining a steady speed reduces fuel consumption.
    
8. Accelerate gently.
   Putting your foot down wastes fuel, emits more pollution and lessens the life of the oil.
    
9. Use the right gear.
   In vehicles with a manual transmission, it is important you find the right gear for the speed or incline. An engine performing in its sweet spot will return better fuel consumption.
    
10. Monitor how much fuel you are using.
    Measure your fuel consumption and compare it with other vehicles of the same model. If you don’t know whether your fuel consumption is high, or if it seems high to you, take your vehicle to a Zero Emissions Testing Station or to your local workshop. It could be a small problem that is costing you big dollars.