Mail & Guardian
Mail & Guardian

Seven must-read fuel-saving tips

1 min read

With the petrol price set to increase by 29c for 93 octane fuel and 28c for 95 octane on Wednesday, following the Department of Energy’s fuel-efficiency tips might just save you quite a bit each month.

  • Close your windows when you drive. An open window creates drag, which increases fuel consumption by as much as 20%.

  • Multigrade oil reduces drag, so consider a switch.

  • If you use a logbook to record your fuel purchases and kilometres travelled, you’ll be able to notice any discrepancies in vehicle performance. These could indicate mechanical malfunctions. Remember to service your car regularly.

  • Radial-ply tyres offer less rolling resistance and longer life than cross-ply tyres, so make the change.

  • Remember to pump up your tyres. Driving with under-inflated tyres increases consumption and reduces a tyre’s life, too.

  • Avoid stop-start driving, accelerate slowly and don’t speed — the faster you drive, the more petrol you use.

  • Car-pooling makes economic sense — if you haven’t joined a lift club yet, now might be a good time to join.

    • Read more news, blogs, tips and Q&As in our Smart Money section. Post questions on the site for independent and researched information