Simple Tips to Save you Money on Fuel

Think before you drive

Consider walking, cycling, or taking public transport before getting into your car. If you need to use the car, plan your journey. Picking up groceries and other items on the way home saves taking the car out later.

Avoid short trips

You use 20% more fuel driving when your engine is cold.

Drive smoothly

Make sure you accelerate smoothly. Change gear early (but don't labour the engine). If you drive an automatic, choose 'economy' gear switching as this will keep the engine speed down.

Don't speed

Driving faster doesn’t necessarily mean you’ll get there any faster. By travelling at 100km/h instead of 110km/h you can cut around 13% off your fuel bill.

Look ahead

Check what's happening, maintain a safe following distance and you'll keep at a more constant speed. This uses less fuel than accelerating and braking all the time.

Reduce idling time

If you're going to be stationary for more than 30 seconds, switch your engine off.

Love your car

A little love goes a long way. Keeping your tyres at the right pressure saves fuel, as does checking your alignment, engine timing, air filter and spark plugs regularly.

Watch your air con

Only use air conditioning when absolutely necessary as it tends to eat fuel, up to 10% more in fact. Other features such as the rear window demist can also be a drain, so make sure you switch them off when they've done their job.

Keep your load down

Sounds obvious, but a heavier vehicle means more drag. So take those golf clubs out of the boot after the game, and remove the roof rack when you're not using it. The same goes for the bike rack.

For more driving tips visit www.energywise.org.nz