Great Fuel Tips

So petrol prices have risen over the years and by the looks of things they are not going to get any better. There are however, a few solutions to help with economising fuel.

Multi Task

Plan your trips efficiently, short trips use up more fuel then long trips, even when you cover the same distance. Try to stay out of peak hour traffic, and if you have a two cars use the one that is more fuel efficient for the running around.

Watch your gears

Manual cars work most efficiently between 1500 rpm and 2500 rpm. Try to keep your revs low and shift up through the gears as soon as practical.

Distance

Distance yourself from the driver in front of you, this helps with anticipating traffic change. Avoid unnecessary acceleration and frequent braking.

Idle

Try to switch off your cars engine whenever you are in a traffic delay. Leaving your car in idle, especially in lengthy traffic delays increases fuel waste.

Slow down

The faster you go the faster your fuel will waste. Travelling at a speed of 110 km/hr will use up 25% more fuel then when travelling at 90 km/hr.

Weighing your car down

Things like bike racks and roof racks, increase the aerodynamic drag and fuel consumptions, so its best to remove them when they are not in use. Even windows being left open at speeds of more then 80km/hr will have a dragging effect on the car. Extra weight will cause fuel consumption, for every 45kg of weight; you will use around 2% more fuel. Remove unwanted items from your boot and cargo area, on a regular basis.

Your tyres

The pressure in your tyres must be at the manufacturers recommended pressure. Under inflation reduces tyre life and increases fuel consumption by around 3%.

Air Con

Air-con can suck down an extra 10% of fuel at speeds below 80km/hr. However, at speeds of over 80km/hr, using the air-con is better fuel consumption then opening a window.

Service

Keeping you car well tuned and running well will definitely help with fuel economy.

Cruise Control

Use the cruise control or the top gear on long journeys or on the highway, this helps to maintain constant speed and keeps the car at low revs.

Good fuel

Always fill your car with good clean fuel. Buy from reputable stations that sell in high volumes. Storage tanks that are refilled have a less chance of impurities such as rust and water.

Oils

Change your engine oil and your oil filter regularly. Clean oil reduces friction between moving parts.

The right car

Choose your car carefully and above all wisely. Choose a car that suits your lifestyle, for example if you are a short trip person, go for a lighter car as heavier cars use more fuel.

Upgrading

As hard as it might be to let go of the car you have owned and become used to, it might be a wise decision to upgrade. New cars are more fuel efficient than older cars.