Fuel Saving Tips

1. Treat Your Car to Some TLC

A well-tuned engine will improve fuel economy, so follow your car manufacturer's servicing recommendations to keep it in perfect condition.

Purchasing high-quality motor oils like Shell Helix Ultra E can also help your engine operate more efficiently.

2. Lighten Up

This may come as a surprise, but every kilogram added to your car affects fuel consumption. Keep your boot and back seat clear of unnecessary items that add to your vehicle's weight (e.g. golf clubs)

3. Are you turned on or off?

Idling burns fuel but gets you nowhere. Turn the engine off when you're in a queue, or waiting for someone, then turn it back on when you need it.

If you’re wondering how long you should wait, here’s a quick rule to follow; if you stop for over 10 seconds, switch off your engine.

4. Easy Does It

Driving in a high gear lowers your engine speed, which improves fuel efficiency. So, change up a gear whenever you can, without labouring the engine. Be sure to make the switch in good time when you pull away or when you're accelerating. Never 'redline' the rev counter.

5. Slippery Customer

Designers and aerodynamicists spend ages trying to make a car's body cut smoothly through the air. Opening your windows or sunroof, or piling bikes and boxes onto your roof can heavily impact your fuel economy. Driving faster will also increase the wind resistance you encounter, causing your vehicle to use more fuel.

6. No Drain, No Pain

As a rule, anything that puts a drain on the battery will put a drain on your fuel economy – like air conditioning. But, worse still is a battery in poor condition, because it strains your car’s alternator.

7. Timing is Everything

Driving in heavy stop-start traffic is going to negatively affect fuel economy. So, avoid the rush hours if you can. You'll really notice the improvement in fuel consumption.

8. Open Your Eyes

Think ahead when you're driving. For example, slow down early to let traffic lights change, rather than stopping completely, or speed up a little before you reach the foot of a hill. Leave a sensible distance between yourself and the car ahead to give you ample time to brake evenly.

9. The Fuel Rule

Not all fuels are the same. Your fuel economy can be improved by using the right fuel, so shop around and ensure that you choose one of high quality.

10. Get Pumped Up

Correctly inflated tyres are safer and last longer. A tyre that is underinflated can reduce fuel economy. An under or over-inflated tyre is also more susceptible to failing.