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With the cost of living crisis, many of us are looking at ways we can cut back on costs.
Whilst for many motorists, the prospect of using their vehicle less is not an option, Which? Recommended Breakdown Provider, Start Rescue has some simple fuel-saving tips.
Carry out regular vehicle maintenance checks
The vehicle needs to be in optimal condition. This means ensuring the service schedule is followed, but drivers should also be proactive in looking after their vehicle.
Tyre pressures are still often neglected, and these can have a big impact on efficiency, as well as replacement costs if they wear unnecessarily due to having incorrect pressure. Check your handbook and consider using the quoted higher pressures for long motorway trips or when carrying heavy loads.
Empty your car of items not needed
Don’t carry unnecessary weight. A car is much more energy efficient with less bulk on board.
Remove any unnecessary clutter, including roof racks and bike racks that can impair aerodynamic efficiency.
Avoid rapid acceleration and braking
Most of all, it’s important to anticipate and drive defensively.
Leaving more space between you and the car in front means you can gently decelerate if needed, rather than requiring heavy use of the brakes which is wasted energy. It’s a more relaxing way to travel, too; slow down early for roundabouts and junctions, and don’t leave braking until the last second.
Similarly, avoiding rapid acceleration will result in burning less fuel.
Correctly use your gears
Use the correct gear for the road conditions, cruising in top gear where possible.
Switch off air conditioning
Switch off air conditioning in mild weather instead of leaving it permanently on. Even in warmer weather, consider opening the vehicle windows instead of immediately reaching for the air conditioning controls
Check fuel prices
Check the PetrolPrices app to compare prices on your route before you set off, so you can refuel at the cheapest station.
Start Rescue Managing Director Lee Puffett comments: “At a time when bills are rising, a little pre-journey preparation, and consideration of driving style can help to save motorists money on fuel. Remember that every press of the accelerator pedal impacts your wallet; treat the throttle as a money gauge and the gentler you are, the more you will save. Finally, be careful – safety takes priority over everything else.”
Fuel Saving Top Tips from Start Rescue
- Check the PetrolPrices app
- Reduce your cruising speed
- Limit use of air conditioning
- Check tyre pressures weekly
- Remove unnecessary racks, carriers and weight on board
- Leave plenty of distance so you can reduce use of the brake pedal
- Change gear earlier, cruise in-a high gear when you can
- Switch the engine off in stationary traffic
- Choose routes with major roads and motorways where possible
Aside from adopting these tips from Start Rescue, to help you save you money on fuel, Start Rescue’s range of affordable breakdown cover polices could mean you could also benefit from saving money on your vehicle breakdown provision.
Breakdown cover price comparison based on 3 Star Cover*
All Start Rescue policies include unlimited callouts, misfuel cover and accident recovery as standard, Their Three Star cover, which has been rated five stars by Defaqto. also includes Home Assist, so should your vehicle not start at home, they will be able to come and assist you.
* All competitor prices have been based on Start Rescue’s most popular 3-star level of cover for a vehicle aged up to 5 years-old. Cover includes nationwide recovery, home assistance, alternative transport, overnight accommodation and key assist. Last updated 19/10/2022.
The price of your policy will depend on the age of your vehicle and the level of cover you choose.