10 easy ways to cut the cost of driving

Fuel prices are coming down.

Yes, you read that right.

After years of painful pump prices and endless cost-of-living pressures, petrol and diesel prices are actually falling.

In fact, figures from the RAC show that in May, petrol prices dropped for the third month in a row, hitting levels not seen in nearly four years. 

And diesel prices are also at their lowest since September 2021.

In May alone, petrol prices fell from 134p per litre to 132.3p, while diesel dropped from 140.5p to 138.4p. 

That means a full tank of petrol now costs around £72.74 and you can fill up a diesel car for £76.13.

But even with prices easing, it still pays to be smart about how you drive, so you can make your money go further every time you hit the road.

1.    Fill up at the supermarket

Supermarkets often have much lower fuel prices than branded petrol stations.

So if you fill up regularly, the pennies you can save each time can add up to a big amount over time.

And you can use your supermarket loyalty card to get extra points and rewards each time.

2.    Don’t pay extra for premium fuel

Unless your car specifically requires it (check your manual to be sure), premium or "super unleaded" fuel isn’t necessary.

For most drivers, standard petrol or diesel is perfectly fine. 

3.    Learn fuel-efficient driving techniques

You can cut how much fuel your car uses by making small changes to your driving style.

For example, rapid starts burn more fuel, so accelerate gently instead, and once you’re moving, keep a steady speed and change gears smoothly.

And if you’re approaching a light or junction and know you have to stop, ease off the accelerator instead of braking hard.

4.    Check your tyre pressure

Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder and use more fuel. 

Check your tyre pressure at least once a month and before you set off on any long journeys, so you can be sure they’re in the best condition.

You’ll find the recommended pressure in your vehicle manual or on the inside of your car door.

5.    Clear out clutter from your car

Extra weight means extra fuel consumption.

So if your boot is full of things you don’t need, take them out.

The same goes for roof racks or bike carriers.

If you're not using them, they’re only adding unnecessary drag and forcing your car to use more fuel.

6.    Plan your trips

You can save fuel by simply planning your route in advance. 

Use free apps like Google Maps to work out the best route to your destination, maybe one that allows you to drive at a steady speed and avoid expensive tolls.

You can also find out important information like where the cheapest fuel stations are located and where you can park for free or for a low cost.

7.    Avoid short journeys

A car engine isn’t as efficient when it’s cold, so going on a short trip - perhaps less than five minutes - doesn’t give it much time to warm up.

So if you’re running an errand locally, it might be worth leaving the car at home and walking or cycling instead.

Or maybe you could combine several errands into one single trip, so you’re not doing too many short journeys.

8.    Limit your air conditioning use

Air con can make a car journey more comfortable, but it can also increase fuel use, especially at lower speeds. 

So open the windows if the weather is a bit milder and save the air con for when you really need it.

9.    Avoid idling

Leaving your engine running while parked or waiting wastes fuel unnecessarily, so if you’re going to be stationary for more than a minute or two, just turn it off.

 Many newer cars have stop-start systems - use them if you’ve got one.

Of course, you may need to idle briefly when it’s cold and you need to clear the windscreen.

That’s fine, as long as you avoid leaving the engine running longer than necessary.

10.    Keep your car serviced

Regular servicing helps keep your engine in good condition, your oil clean and your air filters clear.

And that in turn helps you cut fuel use.

It might cost a little upfront, but it can save you money in the long run.