How to save petrol while you drive

Last updated on 3rd May, 2024 at 01:38 pm

Petrol is not called “liquid gold” for nothing – filling up your tank can make a serious dent in your wallet. Are there ways to get more kilometres from your litres? Let’s separate fact from fiction by looking at a few common tricks for fuel efficiency.

Reading time: 5 minutes

In this article, you’ll learn:

• How to be more fuel efficient
• What tips about fuel efficiency actually work
• How to look after your car to ensure better fuel efficiency

Myth: Freewheeling downhill saves petrol

Fact: While it might seem like a good idea to coast downhill to save fuel, modern cars are actually designed to stop fuel flow when coasting in gear. However, freewheeling, where the engine is disengaged from the wheels, requires fuel to maintain engine idle. Therefore, breezing downhill in gear with the engine engaged is more fuel-efficient than freewheeling.

Myth: Driving with open windows uses more petrol

Fact:  This one is true – depending. Driving with your windows down decreases fuel efficiency, especially at higher speeds. Open windows increase air resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed. However, driving slowly with the windows open instead of blasting the air conditioning is more fuel-efficient – according to the AA, using air con can add up to 15% to your fuel consumption.

Myth: Warming up your car saves fuel

Fact: Idling your car to warm it up before driving is an outdated practice. Modern engines warm up more efficiently when driving. Simply drive gently for the first few minutes to warm up the engine and improve fuel efficiency. Plus, parking your car in a warmer spot during winter can also help your engine warm faster, although the impact is relatively small. According to MiWay spokesperson Siyakha Masiye, parking g your car in a warm spot during winter will help with fuel consumption, since it will increase the initial temperature of the engine, but the impact will be relatively small.

Myth: Overinflating tires can improves fuel efficiency

Fact: While maintaining proper tire pressure is crucial for fuel efficiency, overinflating tires can be dangerous and counterproductive. Overinflated tires reduce traction, resulting in uneven wear and compromised handling. Follow your manufacturer’s recommended tire pressure for optimal fuel efficiency and safety.

Myth: It doesn’t matter what you pack in the boot

Fact: Overloading your car definitely uses more fuel, because the harder the car has to work, the more petrol it needs. Empty your boot every time you get home, even if it feels like a mission!

Myth: Car services don’t affect fuel consumption

Fact: According to the AA, this is actually the most important factor in your car’s fuel efficiency. Staying on top of your services means things like clogged filters and faulty spark plugs won’t eat your petrol, so check your service book and make that next appointment.