We’re all keeping a close eye on the finances these days, in part because the last year or two has shown us that you never really know what might be round the corner. Trying to live to a tight budget isn’t always easy, of course, and that includes when you need to get from A to B.
The price of petrol and diesel continues to fluctuate without a great deal of warning in the UK, so getting the most mileage from each tankful is a must for many of us. You could be forgiven for thinking there isn’t much you can do to influence your fuel efficiency, but in truth there are several things. Here are five of the most common.
Lighten the load if you can
The heavier the car, the more gas it will inevitably guzzle. Therefore, take a look at what you’re carrying and remove things if you can. For example, unused child seats, golf clubs, pushchairs, toolboxes and general clutter can all add up. A bit of housekeeping could end up going a long way.
Make sure your tyres are operating at their best
Tyres that are set at the correct pressure are far more fuel-efficient because if they’re under-inflated they’ll have more contact with the road surface and will be subject to more friction. It’s a good idea to check your tyre pressures regularly, and if you don’t know what they should be set at consult your manual or ask our team. As always, we’d be happy to advise you on tyres and their correct settings.
Watch your speed
Driving too slowly or too quickly can increase your fuel consumption dramatically. Extensive research has revealed that the optimum speed for fuel efficiency is between 55 and 65 miles per hour, which you would be able to achieve on motorways and many A-roads. If you’re in town, however, the sensible option is to focus on driving smoothly, without any unnecessary revving or sharp, late braking.
Taking care of the little things
Finally, there are several small adjustments you can make which will add up to significant savings. Opening windows will make the car less aerodynamic, and this will have an effect on usage. Using the air conditioning will be a drain on your fuel tank as well, so it’s best to avoid using it unless you absolutely have to.
