Fuel economy

Improve your fuel economy

Compared to other European countries, UK petrol prices are high and rising. With recent political and economical unrest the trend is unfortunately likely to continue. But don't despair, help is at hand in the shape of a few simple tips from Green Flag to help cut those fuel costs.

Slow down

Keeping your speed down can reduce the fuel consumption of the engine. It goes without saying that we should all stick to the speed limit, but your car's handbook will tell you what the most fuel-efficient in-town and out-of-town speed is for your particular model.

Lose weight

Avoid carrying any unnecessary weight in the car as heavy loads put more strain on the vehicle, leading to higher fuel consumption.

Find the shortest route

Taking the trouble to find the shortest route to your destination can make the journey more economical. Green Flag's online route planner can help you establish the shortest route from your doorstep to any destination in Europe.

Cut the air con

Running the air conditioning increases the car's fuel consumption so if you want to economise keep it to a minimum.

Close the windows

Open windows and sun-roofs create drag which means that you won't travel as far per litre of fuel.

Share journeys

By sharing journeys with friends and colleagues the overall fuel consumption can be reduced.

Multi-tasking saves money

One long multi-purpose trip is more fuel efficient than several short ones, as a cold engine uses more fuel than a warmed up one.

Shop around

Check out the difference in prices charged by garages in your local area. Prices can vary, and if you are a high mileage driver who fills up regularly even one pence off a litre can make significant savings. Avoid filling up at motorway service stations as their prices tend to be higher.

Check your pressure

Checking tyre pressure regularly not only improves the safety and performance of the tyres, it also keeps the car running at the optimum fuel efficiency.

Smoothly does it

Try to drive as smoothly as possible and maintain a steady speed. Braking and then accelerating regularly will reduce the number of miles per litre the car can clock up. It's easier to drive smoothly (and also much safer) if you keep a gap of at least two seconds from the car in front of you.

Give the car a break

When queuing in heavy traffic or waiting for passengers, turn off the engine to avoid wasting fuel.

Stay tuned

Have your car's engine tuned at a reputable local garage to ensure it is running at the optimum fuel usage level.

Check the oil

As well as maintaining the correct levels of oil, motorists who want to save money on fuel should check the type of oil used, as some energy-efficient types can increase the number of miles per litre.

It pays to be green