Petrol Money Saving Tips

The rise of petrol prices have been one of the causes of frustrations around the country. Who would be happy when your single biggest weekly purchase is spent on car petrol, right?

Yes there is a chance that prices can drop given how volatile the price of fuel is. However, prices are fuel are out of your control. What is in your control is how you use your fuel. 

What can you do to improve your car’s fuel economy and save a little more money? Your driving habits are a primary factors in your fuel consumption so you should be looking on to improve in this area. Need some help?

Here's our top fuel saving tips to amp your car’s fuel economy and keep a few money dollars in your pocket.

Petrol Saving Tips #1: Reduce your speed.

Try slowing down for a few days and see the difference it makes on your fuel. While you may have to accelerate a number of times on the road, your fuel economy decreases significantly every time you speed up. 

Petrol Saving Tips #2: Check your tire pressure.

When tires are not inflated to the correct pressure, it affect your fuel economy. Under-inflated tires require more rolling resistance, which means your car has to work harder to get it rolling. Give your tires a monthly check up especially in the colder months. Driving your car warms up the tires, which then increases the pressure giving a false higher reading.

Petrol Saving Tips #3: Dress for the weather.

How does it affect your fuel? Airconditioning and heating system use engine power thus increasing your fuel consumption. So unless it’s really necessary to turn on either on several occasions, try dressing for the weather instead. When the weather’s cooler, don't reach for the air conditioner dial. Simply wind down your windows to let the breeze come in and wear light clothes. You’ll save on your fuel and enjoy nature at the same time.

Petrol Saving Tips #4: Be gentle with the accelerator, brakes and steering wheel.

Drive as smoothly as you can. Gently use your steering, accelerator and brakes. For automatic vehicles, accelerate moderately so the transmission can shift up into the higher gears. If you’re driving a stick, shift early to keep your revs down and downshift if there’s a need to accelerate. Looking well ahead on the road can help you anticipate any potential slowdowns. Try to oversee what’s going to happen in front of you and keep your eye on the traffic lights as well.

Petrol Saving Tips #5: Lighten your car load.

The heavier the vehicle, the more fuel it will use. For this reason alone, go through your car and toss out unnecessary items you may be lugging around. It’s not going to magically save you loads of money, but in the long run, a lighter vehicle load can improve your fuel economy.

Petrol Saving Tips #6: Downsize, Dieselise or Hybridise.

You might want to re-evaluate your options when buying for a new car. If a small car is at the bottom of your priority list, think again. Smaller cars are more cost-efficient on fuel, safer and has more room space than before. Hybrid cars are also gaining popularity like the Toyota’s compact Prius and Honda’s family sized Accord Hybrid. These are great cars to drive in town, don’t use fuel and environment. If you choose to dieselise, Chevrolet Cruze Diesel is a good choice to get great fuel economy on the open road.

Petrol Saving Tips #7: Keep your stock tires.

Upgrading your tires can definitely give your car a new, and perhaps better look but don’t get rid of the stock tires just yet. If your new tires are wider, they’ll require more rolling resistance which in turn can decrease your fuel economy. If you have long road trips in plan, it’s preferable to use the stock tires for better economy and smoother drive. 

Good driving habits, proper vehicle maintenance and fuel consciousness can make a big impact on your fuel economy. Petrol prices are ever-fluctuating. Now is the time to arm yourself with these fuel-saving tips and keep your money where it belongs, it your pocket.