The cost of fuel is one of those frustrating things for a motorist. With the pandemic, we see fuel prices going up and up, but our lifestyles and rates of pay haven’t changed, so we’ve got to make our car go longer without filling up. And while speed is the most influential part of fuel consumption, here are a few things that you should consider that could have a massive impact on how much money you spend on your vehicle.
Regular Maintenance
This is something that we cannot underestimate. Servicing your vehicle and regular maintenance will improve its efficiency, and will improve your fuel consumption. It’s especially important that your tyres are inflated to the right pressure. Look at your owner’s manual and check if the information is just right. Many wheel repair companies can show you how to do it, but also give you some insight into the benefits of having correctly inflated tyres. Remember, your tyre pressure will vary depending on how much load you are carrying. If you have four passengers, as well as luggage, you will need to inflate your tire to maximum pressure.
Do Not Lose Momentum in the Vehicle
You’ve got to keep the car moving at the right speed, which is essential to the right fuel economy. It will always depend on the traffic conditions, and the road up ahead, but if you have to slow down and accelerate again, this will use more fuel. The best thing you can do is drive as smoothly as you can. Steering gently, as well as using the accelerator and brakes properly, means that you will use limited fuel. It’s always important to remain in gear when the fuel cut-off switch is activated, as this means that almost no fuel is used when you brake. You should also anticipate what is going to happen in front of you by looking further ahead. If you see a red light in the distance, you can cut back on the accelerator and keep moving rather than stop-starting.
Keeping Your Engine Warm
One roundtrip instead of several short trips are fantastic for the fuel economy. When the engine is warm, it’s going to operate more efficiently. If you have to keep starting the engine from cold, this is going to increase the fuel consumption.
Do Not Use Your Air Conditioning (Unless You Have To)
If it’s a boiling hot day, and you are driving 60 mph on the motorway, can you benefit from having the window open a bit? The same applies to the heating. Don’t use the AC and heating unless you have to, as it will use engine power and increase your fuel consumption.
Fuel efficiency is a great way to save money of course, and it’s also one of the most important ways to prolong the life of your car. As the petrol costs go up, we’ve got to find ways to drive more economically. Even if we have to get a used car to cut back on our expenses, these are a few simple things. Hopefully, you won’t have to see the fuel warning light on your dashboard anytime soon!