Ways to Reduce Fuel Consumption When Driving

Keep you car clean - a cleaner car is more fuel efficient. It’s all down to aerodynamics as dirt and debris creates a rougher surface for airflow. A variety of experiments have found a vehicle to be more fuel-efficient when clean, averaging 2 miles per gallon (mpg) more than when it was dirty. 

Shop Around - keep an eye on fuel prices in your area, go for the most economical and only top up when you need to. Money expert Martin Lewis also suggested recently that a full tank adds a lot of weight to the load, which means the vehicle will consume slightly more fuel. 

Drive at a smooth steady speed - take into consideration the traffic ahead and accelerate gently. Braking and speeding up can cause you to use more fuel. 

Maintain tyre pressure - make sure tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. Under-inflated tyres can increase the vehicle’s drag which increases fuel usage. 

Regular servicing - regular maintenance and servicing improves general efficiency. 

Change gears earlier - most modern vehicles suggest when to shift gear. Try not to over-rev the engine and use the highest gear within the speed limit. 

Remove excess weight - try not to use the boot for storing heavy items. 

Air-con - AC uses engine power resulting in increased fuel consumption. 

Use a sat nav - this can help to avoid unnecessary detours and delays on the roads. 

Walk or bike - do you really need the car to run a few errands? Choosing to leave the car at home is good exercise too.