How to Save Money on Fuel Costs in the UK

1. Drive More Efficiently

Your driving habits have a direct impact on your fuel consumption. By making small adjustments, you can improve your car’s efficiency and reduce how often you need to fill up.

Fuel-Saving Driving Tips:

• Avoid harsh acceleration and braking – Smooth driving uses less fuel.
• Maintain a steady speed – Use cruise control on motorways to keep a consistent speed.
• Shift gears correctly – Change gears earlier in a manual car to avoid revving the engine.
• Reduce idling – If you’re stationary for more than a minute, switch off your engine.
• Use engine stop-start features – Many modern cars have this function to help save fuel in traffic.

2. Keep Your Car Well-Maintained

Regular maintenance ensures your car runs efficiently, preventing excess fuel consumption.

Key Maintenance Checks:

• Check tyre pressure regularly – Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, which burns more fuel.
• Keep up with servicing – A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently.
• Replace air filters – A clogged air filter can reduce fuel economy.
• Use the right engine oil – Follow the manufacturer’s recommendation for the best performance.

3. Reduce Unnecessary Weight and Drag

Extra weight and poor aerodynamics make your car work harder, using more fuel.

Simple Ways to Lighten Your Load:

• Remove unnecessary items from your boot – Every extra kg increases fuel consumption.
• Take off roof racks and boxes when not in use – They create drag and reduce fuel efficiency.
• Keep windows closed at high speeds – Open windows increase air resistance.

4. Plan Your Journeys Efficiently

Planning ahead can save you time, reduce fuel use, and avoid unnecessary miles.

Smart Travel Tips:

• Combine multiple trips into one – A warm engine is more fuel-efficient than multiple cold starts.
• Use navigation apps – Google Maps and Waze can help avoid traffic and find the quickest routes.
• Avoid rush hour if possible – Stop-start traffic increases fuel consumption.

5. Find the Cheapest Fuel Prices

Not all petrol stations charge the same prices, so it’s worth shopping around.

How to Find Cheap Fuel:

• Use fuel price comparison websites – Check apps like PetrolPrices.com to find the lowest rates nearby.
• Supermarket petrol stations – Tesco, Sainsbury’s, and Asda often offer competitive prices.
• Avoid motorway service stations – They typically charge more than local fuel stations.
• Sign up for fuel loyalty schemes – Shell, BP, and supermarket brands offer discounts and rewards.

6. Consider Fuel-Saving Technology

Modern cars come with features designed to improve fuel efficiency, but even older vehicles can benefit from a few technological upgrades.

Useful Technology to Save Fuel:

• Hybrid or electric vehicles – If you’re in the market for a new car, these can reduce fuel costs significantly.
• Eco-driving modes – Many cars have a setting that optimises fuel consumption.
• Tyre pressure monitoring systems – Keeping tyres at the correct pressure improves efficiency.
• Fuel additives – Some drivers claim additives improve fuel economy, but results vary.

7. Use Public Transport and Car Sharing

Sometimes, the best way to save fuel is to use alternatives to driving.

Cost-Saving Alternatives:

• Public transport – For short commutes, buses, trains, and trams may be cheaper than driving.
• Car-sharing schemes – Services like Liftshare and BlaBlaCar can cut costs if you split fuel expenses with others.
• Work from home – If your job allows it, reducing commuting days lowers fuel usage.

8. Consider Switching to an Electric or Hybrid Car

With rising fuel prices, more drivers are considering electric or hybrid vehicles. Although the upfront cost can be higher, they can offer long-term savings.

Financial Benefits:

• Lower running costs – Electricity is cheaper than petrol or diesel per mile.
• Government grants – The UK government offers incentives for electric vehicle (EV) purchases.
• Tax benefits – EVs are exempt from road tax and congestion charges in many areas.

9. Take Advantage of Employer Fuel Schemes

Some workplaces offer fuel-saving benefits to employees.

Employer Benefits to Explore:

• Company car schemes – Often include fuel-efficient or electric vehicle options.
• Salary sacrifice schemes – Some businesses offer car leasing deals that include fuel discounts.
• Fuel reimbursement programs – If you drive for work, check if you can claim fuel expenses.

10. Avoid Premium Fuels Unless Necessary

Premium fuels, like Shell V-Power or BP Ultimate, are often marketed as improving performance, but most cars don’t need them.

When to Consider Premium Fuel:

• If your manufacturer recommends it – Some high-performance engines require premium fuel.
• If you do a lot of motorway driving – Some drivers report better efficiency over long distances.
• If you own an older car – Occasional premium fuel use can help clean the engine, but it’s not essential.

Conclusion

Saving money on fuel costs in the UK requires a mix of smarter driving habits, vehicle maintenance, and fuel price awareness. By making a few small changes, you can stretch each litre further and reduce the impact of rising fuel prices on your wallet. Whether you drive daily for work or just use your car occasionally, these tips can help you cut costs and drive more efficiently.