Top ten tips for reducing the cost of motoring

November 19th, 2010

Fuel prices are soaring with the average family now paying 18% more on petrol than last year. Swiftcover.com has a few tips that may help you reduce your bills and get more out of the fuel you are spending your hard earned cash on.

1. Make sure you remove any unused clutter such as roof racks, old damaged tyres and anything else that may add extra weight to your car.

2. To be fuel efficient you need to keep your speed between 55-65mph. Anything over that speed will increase how much fuel you consume.

3. Driving erratically by accelerating and braking will also increase your fuel consumption. By driving smoothly and intelligently you can save up to 30% on your motoring costs.

4. Making sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure is not only necessary to make sure your vehicle is safe in wet, wintery weather but can also save you up to 10% in fuel costs.

5. Try to avoid driving short distances. Cold engines use much more fuel and by walking or taking the bus for short distances you will not only save money but you will also help save on unnecessary emissions.

6. Turn your engine off if you get stuck in a traffic jam and you won’t waste fuel on going nowhere.

7. Save fuel by changing up a gear only when you reach 2500rpm for a petrol car and 2000rpm for a diesel car.

8. Plan your journey and the times you travel so you can avoid rush hour. Not only will this stop you from becoming stressed but will cut your fuel bills too.

9. Keep you cars service record up-to-date so that your car is running at its optimum level. Doing this will also ensure your engine is clean and not clogged up.

10. Using your air con will eat fuel so if you don’t need it, don’t use it.

By changing a few little things when driving your car, you will be able to save money by lowering your fuel costs.

Entry Filed under: advice, insurance