The average UK motorist spends over £1,700 per year on fuel. With prices fluctuating, every penny per litre matters. These tips combine efficient driving techniques with smart buying strategies — and they're a perfect companion to wider transport savings.
Find the Cheapest Fuel Near You
Efficient Driving Techniques
- •Accelerate gently — harsh acceleration uses up to 60% more fuel
- •Maintain a steady speed — use cruise control on motorways
- •Anticipate traffic — look ahead and coast to stops instead of braking hard
- •Change up gears early — shift at 2,000-2,500 RPM for petrol cars
- •Don't idle — switch off if stopped for more than 30 seconds
- •Remove roof racks and boxes when not in use — they increase drag significantly
- •Don't carry unnecessary weight in the boot
Vehicle Maintenance for Better MPG
- •Check tyre pressures monthly — underinflated tyres increase fuel consumption by 3%
- •Get regular services — a well-maintained engine is more efficient
- •Use the correct engine oil grade as specified in your manual
- •Replace air filters on schedule — clogged filters reduce efficiency
- •Keep windows closed at high speed — open windows create drag worse than air conditioning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth driving further for cheaper fuel?+
Only if the saving per litre multiplied by your tank size exceeds the cost of the extra journey. For a 50-litre tank, a 5p/litre difference saves £2.50 — not worth a 10-mile detour.
Does air conditioning waste fuel?+
At low speeds, yes — it can increase consumption by 8-10%. At motorway speeds, it's more efficient than opening windows (which creates drag). Use air-con above 40mph, windows below.
Should I switch to an electric car to save money?+
EVs cost significantly less to run (£700-1,000/year vs £1,700 for petrol), but the upfront cost is higher. Salary sacrifice EV leasing can make the switch very affordable.
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