The average UK motorist spends over £1,700 per year on fuel. With prices fluctuating, every penny per litre matters. These tips combine efficient driving techniques with smart buying strategies — and they're a perfect companion to wider transport savings.
Find the Cheapest Fuel Near You
Fuel prices vary by up to 15p/litre within the same town. Use PetrolPrices.com or the Waze app to find the cheapest stations nearby. Supermarket forecourts (Asda, Tesco, Sainsbury's, Morrisons) are typically 3-5p cheaper than branded stations. Costco members save even more — often 8-10p/litre cheaper than the average.
Efficient Driving Techniques
- Accelerate gently — harsh acceleration uses up to 60% more fuel
- Maintain a steady speed — use cruise control on motorways
- Anticipate traffic — look ahead and coast to stops instead of braking hard
- Change up gears early — shift at 2,000-2,500 RPM for petrol cars
- Don't idle — switch off if stopped for more than 30 seconds
- Remove roof racks and boxes when not in use — they increase drag significantly
- Don't carry unnecessary weight in the boot
Vehicle Maintenance for Better MPG
- Check tyre pressures monthly — underinflated tyres increase fuel consumption by 3%
- Get regular services — a well-maintained engine is more efficient
- Use the correct engine oil grade as specified in your manual
- Replace air filters on schedule — clogged filters reduce efficiency
- Keep windows closed at high speed — open windows create drag worse than air conditioning
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it worth driving further for cheaper fuel?
Only if the saving per litre multiplied by your tank size exceeds the cost of the extra journey. For a 50-litre tank, a 5p/litre difference saves £2.50 — not worth a 10-mile detour.
Does air conditioning waste fuel?
At low speeds, yes — it can increase consumption by 8-10%. At motorway speeds, it's more efficient than opening windows (which creates drag). Use air-con above 40mph, windows below.
Should I switch to an electric car to save money?
EVs cost significantly less to run (£700-1,000/year vs £1,700 for petrol), but the upfront cost is higher. Salary sacrifice EV leasing can make the switch very affordable.
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