Money-Saving Fuel Tips

Drive smoothly – Aggressive driving can use as much as a third more fuel than safe driving. Avoid accelerating or braking too hard and try to keep your steering as smooth as possible.

Use higher gears – The higher gear you drive in, the lower your engine speed is, which can improve fuel efficiency. So change a gear whenever you can, without stressing the engine.

Tune and service your engine – A well-tuned engine can improve fuel economy by up to 4%, so change your oil and follow your car manufacturer’s recommendation on servicing.

Keep your tires at the right pressure – Correctly inflated tires are safer and last longer. A tire that is under inflated by just 1 psi can reduce fuel efficiency by as much as 3%. An under inflated tire is also more susceptible to failing.

Avoid carrying excess weight – For every extra 45 kilos you carry, your fuel efficiency can drop by 1-2%. So keep your trunk or back seat clear of unnecessary items that just add weight to your vehicle.

Keep the windows closed – Wind blowing through an open window will slow you down. To compensate, you may put your foot down harder, using more fuel.

Take the roof rack off – If you’re not using your roof rack then remove it. They affect the aerodynamic efficiency of your vehicle and create drag, reducing fuel economy by as much as 5%.

Use the correct oil – Always use the recommended grade of motor oil. Using the manufacturer’s recommended lubricant can improve fuel efficiency by 1-2%. Higher quality motor oils can also help your engine operate more efficiency.

Use cruise control – Using cruise control on major roads helps you maintain a constant speed and, in many cases, will improve fuel consumption.

Avoid excess idling – Idling gets you nowhere but still burns fuel. Turn the engine off when you’re in a line, or waiting for someone, until you need it.