subject: Saving Fuel When Driving & Other Money Saving Motoring Tips [print this page] Saving Fuel When Driving & Other Money Saving Motoring Tips
With the downturn in the economy, budget cuts and increased taxes everyone is feeling the pinch. Historically motorists have been seen as easy targets for increased tax revenues so here are a few simple tips to make that tank of fuel last the extra mile.
Shopping Around For Fuel
Prices for diesel and petrol can vary dramatically form forecourt to forecourt. Doing a little research about what station is selling the cheapest fuel can save you quite a bit of money. Smartphone users can download apps which tell them where the cheapest stations are located based on where they are. Similarly, shopping around for car insurance can save you money.
Inflate Tires Properly
Proper tire inflation is crucial to economy and to safety. Tires that are under-inflated cause drag and increase fuel consumption. Properly inflated tires are harder, meaning they roll easier, thus using less fuel. Tires can naturally lose up to 1 psi every 30 days, and they will lose pressure more quickly in cold weather. The correct tire pressure varies from car to car but can usually be found in the owner's manual.
Keep Your Car Serviced
Cars that start quickly, run smoothly, and are in good mechanical condition get the most miles per gallon (MPG). Cars that are serviced regularly benefit with longer lasting parts, saving the driver money in two ways MPG savings and future savings in the form of reduced repair costs.
Saving Weight
When a car is heavily laden the engine needs to use more power to move, using more fuel. If you are carrying around unnecessary weight in the boot or back seats you are wasting fuel.
Go Easy on the Accelerator
Going from zero to cruising speed in the quickest time may make you feel like a racing driver but it saps fuel like nothing else. Gently getting to cruising speed is the key while never revving the engine too hard. Fuel consumption is directly related to how hard the engine is working. Ask it to race away from a stop rather than accelerate sensibly, and you'll be visiting the petrol station more often than you like.
Follow these tips and you could see an improvement in your fuel economy, saving you money for other motoring necessities like car insurance.
