With the petrol prices for March 2022 hitting a record high, South Africans are doing everything to save where they can. And with added recent hikes in food and electricity prices, stress levels are high all around the country. So why not learn some tips that are super easy to do, eco-friendly and good for your wallet?
According to Budget Insurance, just being more aware of your vehicle’s fuel consumption can already increase your fuel economy by 40%.
“The good news is that, with a few minor adjustments to your driving habits and with regular car maintenance, you can boost the fuel efficiency of your car by as much as 40%,” said Susan Steward from Budget Insurance
Here are the best tips to keep in mind when saving on petrol:
Service your car
A car service should be done on a regular basis since a vehicle can burn up to 30% more fuel if proper maintenance is not upheld.
Check your wheel alignment
If a car’s wheel alignment is out, more friction is caused. And the extra power used to overcome the friction then results in higher fuel consumption.
Underinflated tyres
Remember to also check your tyres regularly. If a vehicle’s tyres are underinflated, it increases the resistance.
Take it slow
Try keeping the speeding to a minimum if you want to save on petrol. It can also help by drinking at the lowest speed in the highest gear without straining the engine. And by keeping a reasonable following distance between other cars, momentum will be held. Thus, by limiting the stop-and-go action, less fuel will be used.
Keep it eco-friendly
If your car has the technology and option, be sure to set the settings to economy-friendly. Another great tip is to try and do several tasks on one trip. This will limit the mileage and let your car run at its optimal temperature.
“Saving on fuel by keeping your vehicle in shape and changing the way you drive may seem like a bit of a hassle, but if you increase your fuel economy by 40%, a tank that normally gets you 700 km could get you close to 1000 km. This translates to almost a tankful of savings for every two times you fill up,” Steward added.
