The chaos in the Middle East has sent fuel prices soaring and even sparked a diesel shortage across Australia. Filling up at the bowser has never felt so painful. While we can’t control what’s happening overseas, we do have total control over the way we drive.
These tips won't cost you a cent and could save you a fortune.
Smooth Moves: Keep the pedal off the metal
Let’s start with the basics. Rapid acceleration and slamming on the brakes. It’s a no-brainer, but it is very common to see drivers speeding to a red light. Heavy loads put the most fuel demand on your engine. Instead, try easing onto the accelerator when taking off and slowing down gradually when approaching traffic lights or stop signs. Be amazed. You will reach your destination at the same time.
Cruise Control: Your highway hero
Cruise control isn’t just a fancy button – it’s a fuel-saving powerhouse. When you use cruise control on the open road, it keeps your speed steady and your RPMs stable, boosting efficiency by about 10%. Don't use it when going up hills, it will push your engine too hard to maintain speed, gobbling up extra fuel. Instead, drive to the conditions and take it easy up those inclines.
Stop Idling and Start Saving
Older diesel engines needed long warm-ups, but that’s history! These days, 30 to 60 seconds is plenty before you head off. Gentle driving warms the engine more efficiently, so there’s no need to let it idle for ages. If you’re stopped for more than three minutes and you’re not at the lights, switch the engine off. Many freight companies have anti-idling policies for a reason – it’s a real fuel waster.
Keep Your Tyres Pumped and Ready
Running on flat or underinflated tyres increases rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder – and burn more fuel – just to get you down the road. Make a habit of checking your tyre pressure at the servo every few weeks. Keeping them at the recommended pressure will not only save you fuel but also help your rubber to last longer.
Lighten the Load: Declutter Your Car
Carrying a boot full of tools or gear you don’t need? Extra weight means extra fuel burnt. Clear out the junk from your trunk and only carry what’s necessary. Roof racks are handy, but if you’re not using them regularly, take them off – they create drag and drain your fuel efficiency.
Don’t overload at the bowser
Topping up your tank after the pump clicks off isn’t doing your car any favors. When you squeeze in that extra bit of fuel, it can get pushed into parts of your car’s emission system that are only meant to handle vapors, which can lead to damage over time. There’s no space left for the fuel to expand, especially on hot days. So next time the nozzle shuts off, just call it quits, don’t worry about rounding up, your car will thank you.
Drive Smarter, Not Faster
We are hard wired into believing that “safe” speeding will get us to our destination faster. Numerous studies have proved that is not the case. Speeding, especially in city traffic, saves mere seconds at best, it burns more fuel and bumps up your risk of accidents. So, if you want to save money, the fastest way is to drive smart.
Let us know how you go! We would love your feedback on what you’ve done and how much you’ve saved.
