How to save on fuel and get more miles per gallon

The cost of fuel is constantly rising and we're getting lesser and lesser miles per gallon (MPG) for the same price each year. Therefore it becomes necessary to find ways to make more efficient use of the fuel we're putting in our cars.

Adopt an efficient driving style

Driving at high speeds and braking sharply increases fuel consumption, so it's better to:

• drive at the recommended speed - at 60mph you use 9% less fuel than at 70mph
• avoid hard braking - why accelerate only to brake suddenly? You wasting fuel you've already burned!
• avoid excessive idling - turn off your engine if you're going to be stationary for a long time
• select the appropriate gear to drive in - depends on the conditions and your car's capability
• roll up your windows on motorways to prevent drag
• switch off the air conditioner when not needed - open your windows instead
• plan your trips - choose the shortest route or combine several errands into one single journey when traffic is bound to be low
• not carry weight which is not needed - drop the roof rack or unused pram/bags or any other junk in the boot

Service your car regularly

It is recommended you perform routine checks on your vehicle to keep it in good working condition. So the following is important:

• make sure your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure - under inflated tyres can decrease fuel economy by 5%
• use the correct oil for your vehicle - don't use heavier oil than what the manufacturer suggests
• check for wheel alignment to combat rolling resistance
• change your air filter when required
• check your gas cap - if broken or missing, replace immediately to avoid gas evaporating from your tank
• replace fuel filter when the manufacturer recommends

Other tips

Some more useful ideas:

• instead of filling your tank completely, fill up half way and make sure it's always over one quarter full - this will reduce the load
• know when the traffic signals will change so you can slow down instead of coming to a halt
• keep a safe distance from the car in front of you to avoid hard braking
• if you have cruise control, use it

If you have other helpful tips, please share them in the comments below.