For most people, getting out on the open road brings with it an incredible sense of freedom, and one of the biggest advantages to owning a car is the ability to go wherever you want, whenever you want. The costs associated with driving are high and constantly on the rise, and car owners looking to save money are having to get creative when it comes to staying within their budgets.
One of the biggest day-to-day expenses associated with driving a car is petrol, and as petrol prices fluctuate, driving can go from costly to outrageously expensive. Fortunately, there are a few things you can do to help keep your petrol costs as low as possible even when pump prices are high.
Keep your car in good condition and make sure your car air filter is clean. Having a clean air filter can help increase fuel economy in your car. When a filter is dirty or clogged it blocks air flow and reduces the efficiency of the engine, and by keeping it clean you can help keep everything in your car running smoothly. Look for filters that can be cleaned and reused to help save you money and go easy on the environment.
Next, check your tyre pressure and make sure your existing tyres are in good condition. Deflated tyres put more strain on your car because it creates more friction on the road, causing your car to use more energy. Check to see what the manufacturer recommends the pressure on your tyres should be and check the pressure each time you’re filling up at the pump. Keeping your tyres inflated will help your car glide smoothly along the road and use as little fuel as possible.
When you’re driving longer distances on the motorway, use cruise control and try and keep your car at an even speed as often as possible. Constantly stopping and starting your car prevents your engine from being efficient, which is why people often report they use more petrol driving a short distance around the city than when they’re out on the open road.
Finally, when you’re going on longer drives, plan your itinerary ahead of time and try to avoid any construction or road works if possible. This will not only make your route go quicker but will also minimise the amount of fuel your car uses when stopping and starting.
On days you don’t need to take the car, consider walking, using public transport or taking your bike instead. Leaving the car in the driveway when you don’t need it is an easy way to save fuel and can help save a lot of money on fuel costs over time.
Even when petrol costs are at their highest, you can beat the prices at the pump by taking measures to stretch your fuel tank. Look for useful tools such as a petrol cost calculator to help your car be as fuel efficient as possible and free up your budget for other things.