Fuel saving tips to help you drive efficiently

Paul Green, National Remarketing Manager, Thursday, 09 July 2015
Updated: Tuesday, 5 September 2023

With fuel prices seeming to rise with every passing day, learning how to save fuel while driving has become an essential skill for every driver. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading on a road trip, implementing fuel-efficient practices can not only help you stretch your budget and avoid wasting fuel, but also reduce your carbon footprint. Read on as we discuss our top tips and tricks on how to save fuel before, during and after your journey. We’ll uncover which driving technique can help you save fuel, optimal speed for fuel efficiency, and what uses more fuel aircon or windows open, plus much more.

1. Checks before driving

How can you avoid wasting fuel? It’s a good question, there are many ways that you can avoid wasting fuel even before you step foot in the vehicle. These include planning your route to avoid being stuck in traffic, and removing any excess loads that aren’t required for the journey, such as roof-racks.

A quick scan around your vehicle is good for spotting anything out of the ordinary, such as damaged tyres or loose body parts. It’s not only dangerous if your tyres are damaged, have the incorrect pressure or are missing valve caps, it also wastes fuel. While walking around your vehicle, also look out for fuel leaks from and around the tank, and listen out for any unusual mechanical noises or signs of smoke, upon starting the engine.

2. What driving technique saves fuel?

Driving techniques that save fuel can make a significant impact on your overall fuel efficiency and ultimately, your bank account. So, which driving technique can help you save fuel? One key technique to help you save fuel is to practice smooth and gradual acceleration and deceleration, as constant changes in speed use more fuel. Consistent speed is key to make your vehicle fuel efficient.

Another effective technique is to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, allowing for a more gradual and uninterrupted flow of traffic. Additionally, reducing your speed on highways can significantly save fuel, as higher speeds create more aerodynamic drag. Also, try to avoid unnecessary idling, and take advantage of your cruise control as it can improve fuel consumption.

3. Stick to the speed limit

While different for every vehicle, RAC claims that the optimal speed for fuel efficiency is between 45-50mph.

In short, yes. But, this will depend on the outside conditions and type of vehicle you’re driving. Sticking to the speed limit, while gently accelerating and braking, and anticipating what’s going to happen in front of you, can significantly improve your fuel economy. According to the Department for Transport (DfT), driving on the motorway at 80mph uses around 25% more fuel than driving at 70mph.

It’s clear that the faster you drive, the more fuel you use. For example, driving at 70mph uses up to nine per cent more fuel than driving at 60mph. So, how can you avoid wasting fuel? Drive consistently and stick to the speed limit.

4. Does cruise control use more fuel?

Cruise control helps drivers maintain a constant speed with minimal need for acceleration and braking. Cruise control is most effective on flat surfaces; to maximise your fuel efficiency and to help you save fuel, plan ahead and be alert to what is behind you on the road so you can safely move lanes.

With fuel prices seeming to rise with every passing day, learning how to save fuel while driving has become an essential skill for every driver. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading on a road trip, implementing fuel-efficient practices can not only help you stretch your budget and avoid wasting fuel, but also reduce your carbon footprint. Read on as we discuss our top tips and tricks on how to save fuel before, during and after your journey. We’ll uncover which driving technique can help you save fuel, optimal speed for fuel efficiency, and what uses more fuel aircon or windows open, plus much more.

1. Checks before driving

How can you avoid wasting fuel? It’s a good question, there are many ways that you can avoid wasting fuel even before you step foot in the vehicle. These include planning your route to avoid being stuck in traffic, and removing any excess loads that aren’t required for the journey, such as roof-racks.

A quick scan around your vehicle is good for spotting anything out of the ordinary, such as damaged tyres or loose body parts. It’s not only dangerous if your tyres are damaged, have the incorrect pressure or are missing valve caps, it also wastes fuel. While walking around your vehicle, also look out for fuel leaks from and around the tank, and listen out for any unusual mechanical noises or signs of smoke, upon starting the engine.

2. What driving technique saves fuel?

Driving techniques that save fuel can make a significant impact on your overall fuel efficiency and ultimately, your bank account. So, which driving technique can help you save fuel? One key technique to help you save fuel is to practice smooth and gradual acceleration and deceleration, as constant changes in speed use more fuel. Consistent speed is key to make your vehicle fuel efficient.

Another effective technique is to maintain a safe distance from vehicles in front of you, allowing for a more gradual and uninterrupted flow of traffic. Additionally, reducing your speed on highways can significantly save fuel, as higher speeds create more aerodynamic drag. Also, try to avoid unnecessary idling, and take advantage of your cruise control as it can improve fuel consumption.

3. Stick to the speed limit

While different for every vehicle, RAC claims that the optimal speed for fuel efficiency is between 45-50mph.

In short, yes. But, this will depend on the outside conditions and type of vehicle you’re driving. Sticking to the speed limit, while gently accelerating and braking, and anticipating what’s going to happen in front of you, can significantly improve your fuel economy. According to the Department for Transport (DfT), driving on the motorway at 80mph uses around 25% more fuel than driving at 70mph.

It’s clear that the faster you drive, the more fuel you use. For example, driving at 70mph uses up to nine per cent more fuel than driving at 60mph. So, how can you avoid wasting fuel? Drive consistently and stick to the speed limit.

4. Does cruise control use more fuel?

Cruise control helps drivers maintain a constant speed with minimal need for acceleration and braking. Cruise control is most effective on flat surfaces; to maximise your fuel efficiency and to help you save fuel, plan ahead and be alert to what is behind you on the road so you can safely move lanes.

5. Does aircon and heating use fuel?

Does aircon use fuel we hear you ask? Well, while heating only uses a small amount of fuel, aircon uses a significant amount more due to an increased demand on the engine. According to resources, using aircon can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%, and this is more noticeable on shorter journeys.

But, what uses more fuel aircon or open windows? It’s more fuel efficient to open a window than use your aircon when driving at lower speeds. Maybe consider opening the windows next time it gets hot, you aren’t driving at high speeds and are considering how to save fuel.

5. Does aircon and heating use fuel?

Does aircon use fuel we hear you ask? Well, while heating only uses a small amount of fuel, aircon uses a significant amount more due to an increased demand on the engine. According to resources, using aircon can increase fuel consumption by up to 10%, and this is more noticeable on shorter journeys.

But, what uses more fuel aircon or open windows? It’s more fuel efficient to open a window than use your aircon when driving at lower speeds. Maybe consider opening the windows next time it gets hot, you aren’t driving at high speeds and are considering how to save fuel.

6. Keep your windows closed

Open windows can cause drag on the car which in turn uses more fuel. While modern cars are designed to be aerodynamic, when a vehicle has its windows down, air passes through the vehicle where it would normally flow over it, causing a resistance that wasn’t there before. Driving at relatively low speeds with the windows down uses less fuel than driving at high speeds; as when your speed increases, so does the amount of drag on the vehicle.

7. Use eco-features if your car has them

Most modern vehicles today are fitted with eco-mode; a mode designed to use fuel more efficiently by changing basic functions of the vehicle. It’s estimated that using this mode could cut back on fuel consumption by 3-10%, and works best when driving a lower speeds (the optimal speed for fuel efficiency is between 45-50mph). Eco-mode is not recommended for motorways or long-distance driving. Other benefits include:

  • Fewer harmful emissions
  • Less pressure on the car’s engine and battery
  • Improved traffic safety
  • Money savings

6. Keep your windows closed

Open windows can cause drag on the car which in turn uses more fuel. While modern cars are designed to be aerodynamic, when a vehicle has its windows down, air passes through the vehicle where it would normally flow over it, causing a resistance that wasn’t there before. Driving at relatively low speeds with the windows down uses less fuel than driving at high speeds; as when your speed increases, so does the amount of drag on the vehicle.

7. Use eco-features if your car has them

Most modern vehicles today are fitted with eco-mode; a mode designed to use fuel more efficiently by changing basic functions of the vehicle. It’s estimated that using this mode could cut back on fuel consumption by 3-10%, and works best when driving a lower speeds (the optimal speed for fuel efficiency is between 45-50mph). Eco-mode is not recommended for motorways or long-distance driving. Other benefits include:

  • Fewer harmful emissions
  • Less pressure on the car’s engine and battery
  • Improved traffic safety
  • Money savings

8. Shop around for fuel

Many people fill up for convenience not for cost, but shopping around for your fuel, even in the same town, can actually help you save on fuel. Key players for costly fuel include:

  • Service stations: As convenient as they seem, service stations are renowned for being expensive for that exact reason so don’t make it a regular place for your fuel stop.
  • Remote fuel pumps: Again, fuel stops that are in the middle of nowhere, or just before a long ‘A’ road mean you may not be getting the best price.

Thankfully with a wide range of loyalty cards and cashback schemes at large corporations (such as BP and Shell, and your local supermarket), means there’s plenty of ways to cut fuel costs and make your money go the distance. So, make sure you’re not missing out on any discounts when you next fill up, grab yourself a membership card and get saving. It’s really a great way to save fuel. It’s also worth highlighting the differences between petrol and diesel, when considering a new vehicle.

8. Shop around for fuel

Many people fill up for convenience not for cost, but shopping around for your fuel, even in the same town, can actually help you save on fuel. Key players for costly fuel include:

  • Service stations: As convenient as they seem, service stations are renowned for being expensive for that exact reason so don’t make it a regular place for your fuel stop.
  • Remote fuel pumps: Again, fuel stops that are in the middle of nowhere, or just before a long ‘A’ road mean you may not be getting the best price.

Thankfully with a wide range of loyalty cards and cashback schemes at large corporations (such as BP and Shell, and your local supermarket), means there’s plenty of ways to cut fuel costs and make your money go the distance. So, make sure you’re not missing out on any discounts when you next fill up, grab yourself a membership card and get saving. It’s really a great way to save fuel. It’s also worth highlighting the differences between petrol and diesel, when considering a new vehicle.

Is premium fuel worth it? It depends on your vehicle. If you own a conventional vehicle, then you’re unlikely to benefit from paying extra for premium fuels. However, if you drive a sports car (or one with high-power) where performance is key, then opting for premium fuel is worthwhile, as it will help your vehicle have a more efficient performance.

So, how can you avoid wasting fuel? You can start by checking out Petrol Prices to find best fuel prices in your area, and by driving the optimal speed for fuel efficiency as previously mentioned.

9. Maintaining your vehicle

Overlooking routine vehicle maintenance can lead to reduced fuel efficiency. Dirty air filters, old spark plugs, and worn-out tyres can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and fuel effectiveness.

So, when will your vehicle use more fuel? One example is, underinflated tyres, as they increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and consume more fuel. It’s important to regularly check your tyre pressure, ensuring it meets the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Properly inflated tyres not only enhance your safety but also increase your fuel efficiency.

Alongside this, regularly checking your oil levels and topping up when needed, is another important part of vehicle maintenance, and can help you save fuel. As well as, being aware of what your warning lights mean! Understand how often you should service your vehicle, and keep up with regular tune-ups, oil changes, and maintenance checks to ensure optimal fuel efficiency.

What is most likely to waste fuel?

So, how can you avoid wasting fuel? One of the most effective ways to burn through fuel is through continuous hard braking, sudden acceleration and excessive speeding. These practices increase fuel consumption due to the excessive strain on the engine.

Other factors that lead to fuel waste include poor tyre maintenance (especially underinflated tyres); neglecting vehicle maintenance, idling and carrying excessive weight. By understanding and addressing these fuel-wasting habits, you can make a conscious effort to become a more efficient driver that maximises fuel efficiency whenever possible.

What is hypermiling?

One popular ‘hypermiling’ technique is coasting in neutral gear. But, does coasting save fuel? While driver’s believe this helps save fuel, we don’t recommend it. Coasting in neutral whilst driving downhill can be extremely dangerous because you don’t have full control of the vehicle’s throttle and can make braking incredibly hard. Alongside, possibly damaging your vehicle, you could also be fined £1,000 for dangerous driving if an accident were to occur.

Consider switching to hybrid or electric

Last, have you considered swapping your petrol or diesel model for a hybrid or electric model? Alongside saving you money on fuel, other benefits of making the switch include:

  • Fewer emissions (and lower road tax)
  • Improves air quality
  • No idling
  • Instant torque
  • Potentially higher resale value
  • You can develop better driving habits

We’ll admit, hybrid and electric vehicles may be more expensive to purchase, but can save you money in the long run.

FAQs about saving fuel

Does sticking to the speed limit reduce fuel consumption? We’ve got the 3 most frequently asked questions on the topic to help you (the short answer is yes!)

According to KwitFit using your AC could increase your fuel usage by as much as 10%, this is more present on short journeys.

In short, yes; when vehicles are idling, they use more fuel. It’s recommended, if safe to do so, to turn off your engine when stood in traffic or stopping for another purpose.

Unfortunately the majority of devices on the market that claim to help you save fuel, don’t and offer little (or no change) in a vehicles overall performance.

Yes, in colder temperatures (such as driving in the snow) your engine takes longer to warm up and in turn can significantly reduce fuel economy.

Is premium fuel worth it? It depends on your vehicle. If you own a conventional vehicle, then you’re unlikely to benefit from paying extra for premium fuels. However, if you drive a sports car (or one with high-power) where performance is key, then opting for premium fuel is worthwhile, as it will help your vehicle have a more efficient performance.

So, how can you avoid wasting fuel? You can start by checking out Petrol Prices to find best fuel prices in your area, and by driving the optimal speed for fuel efficiency as previously mentioned.

9. Maintaining your vehicle

Overlooking routine vehicle maintenance can lead to reduced fuel efficiency. Dirty air filters, old spark plugs, and worn-out tyres can significantly impact your vehicle’s performance and fuel effectiveness.

So, when will your vehicle use more fuel? One example is, underinflated tyres, as they increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and consume more fuel. It’s important to regularly check your tyre pressure, ensuring it meets the manufacturer’s recommended specifications. Properly inflated tyres not only enhance your safety but also increase your fuel efficiency.

Alongside this, regularly checking your oil levels and topping up when needed, is another important part of vehicle maintenance, and can help you save fuel. As well as, being aware of what your warning lights mean! Understand how often you should service your vehicle, and keep up with regular tune-ups, oil changes, and maintenance checks to ensure optimal fuel efficiency.

What is most likely to waste fuel?

So, how can you avoid wasting fuel? One of the most effective ways to burn through fuel is through continuous hard braking, sudden acceleration and excessive speeding. These practices increase fuel consumption due to the excessive strain on the engine.

Other factors that lead to fuel waste include poor tyre maintenance (especially underinflated tyres); neglecting vehicle maintenance, idling and carrying excessive weight. By understanding and addressing these fuel-wasting habits, you can make a conscious effort to become a more efficient driver that maximises fuel efficiency whenever possible.

What is hypermiling?

One popular ‘hypermiling’ technique is coasting in neutral gear. But, does coasting save fuel? While driver’s believe this helps save fuel, we don’t recommend it. Coasting in neutral whilst driving downhill can be extremely dangerous because you don’t have full control of the vehicle’s throttle and can make braking incredibly hard. Alongside, possibly damaging your vehicle, you could also be fined £1,000 for dangerous driving if an accident were to occur.

Consider switching to hybrid or electric

Last, have you considered swapping your petrol or diesel model for a hybrid or electric model? Alongside saving you money on fuel, other benefits of making the switch include:

  • Fewer emissions (and lower road tax)
  • Improves air quality
  • No idling
  • Instant torque
  • Potentially higher resale value
  • You can develop better driving habits

We’ll admit, hybrid and electric vehicles may be more expensive to purchase, but can save you money in the long run.

FAQs about saving fuel

Does sticking to the speed limit reduce fuel consumption? We’ve got the 3 most frequently asked questions on the topic to help you (the short answer is yes!)

According to KwitFit using your AC could increase your fuel usage by as much as 10%, this is more present on short journeys.

In short, yes; when vehicles are idling, they use more fuel. It’s recommended, if safe to do so, to turn off your engine when stood in traffic or stopping for another purpose.

Unfortunately the majority of devices on the market that claim to help you save fuel, don’t and offer little (or no change) in a vehicles overall performance.

Yes, in colder temperatures (such as driving in the snow) your engine takes longer to warm up and in turn can significantly reduce fuel economy.

 
Paul Green, National Remarketing Manager
Bringing you tips on buying and maintaining your vehicle to make life on the road less stressful.
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