Reducing Fuel Consumption: Tips, Tricks, and Common Pitfalls
High fuel prices have been a constant concern for motorists over the last few years, so making the most of your fuel is something drivers need to consider. In this article, we will go through some tips and tricks on how to reduce fuel consumption and hopefully save you some money at the pump.
Vehicle Maintenance
Top of the list of the ways in which to reduce fuel consumption is to make sure your car is running efficiently. Regular maintenance, servicing and engine oil changes will ensure that the fuel consumption is at its optimum rate and everything is working as it should on your car. At Protyre, we have over 180 garages around the UK where we offer MOTs, servicing, tyre fitting and a wide range of vehicle checks. All you need to do is enter your postcode into our find a garage search, and we will find your nearest local garage.
Watch Your Speed
Another factor that causes increased fuel consumption is driving too fast. Cars reach their optimum fuel efficiency at around 40 to 50 mph, so if you often drive at 80 mph, you will use 25% more fuel than driving at 70 mph. If you want to make your fuel last longer and keep the costs down, reduce your speed.
Remember to Check Your Tyre Pressure
Fuel efficiency is very much affected by your tyre pressure because if your tyres are underinflated, this increases friction and the engine of your car will have to work much harder, using more fuel. Always make sure that your tyres are inflated correctly to the pressures that are listed in your vehicle's handbook or on the sticker that can be found on the inside of the driver's door. In addition, it's important to remember that if you are going on holiday with luggage, carrying a heavier load or more passengers than usual, your car will need higher tyre pressures to compensate for the added weight. If you need new tyres for your car, our extensive range at Protyre includes top brands like Pirelli, Bridgestone and Falken. Enter your registration number and postcode or search by tyre size to find your new tyres.
Always Drive Smoothly
Another tip to reduce fuel consumption is to try and drive smoothly, especially when accelerating and don't rev the engine unnecessarily. The revs for a diesel engine should be between 1200 and 2000 rpm and a petrol engine should be around 1500 to 2500 rpm. Also, try not to brake harshly as aggressive driving can cause increased fuel consumption.
Use the Highest Possible Gear
A great tip that can reduce your fuel consumption is to drive in the highest gear possible and switch up the gears quickly if you are driving in an urban area. Many new cars now have Eco driving guides that will tell you the best moment to change gear.
Be Careful With Air Conditioning
Even though it can feel lovely to sit in a cool car, turning the air conditioning up to the maximum does use up a lot of fuel. If you are driving at lower speeds, open the windows to let cool air in, but be aware that having the windows open at faster speeds can increase drag, which can also use extra fuel. Also, be careful when using demisters, heated seats or heated rear windows as these can also use more fuel.
Try Not to Carry Unnecessary Weight
Another tip for reducing fuel consumption is to not carry too much weight. Always empty your boot and remove your roof rack or roof box when you are not using it.
Frequently Asked Questions
On the whole, moderate temperatures and dry conditions are best for fuel efficiency. Cold temperatures reduce efficiency due to increased engine friction, and hot weather can lead to increased use of your air conditioning. Rain and wet roads can increase rolling resistance, strong winds can increase drag and snow and ice not only increase resistance but may also require energy-consuming features like de-icing and demisters.
To reduce fuel consumption, focus on efficient driving habits, including maintaining steady speeds and avoiding rapid acceleration or braking. Also, keep your vehicle well-maintained with regular oil changes, proper tyre inflation and yearly servicing.
The factors most likely to increase fuel consumption are aggressive driving such as rapid acceleration, hard braking and poor vehicle maintenance. Carrying unnecessary weight in the vehicle and using the incorrect tyre pressure can also be factors, alongside excessive use of air conditioning, which can also increase fuel consumption.
