WITH THE cost of running a car continuing to rise, motorists across the UK are being urged to consider how small changes to their driving habits and car maintenance could result in significant savings.
According to car parts specialist Kazimieras Urbonas, supplier excellence manager at Ovoko, some of the most common habits behind the wheel are quietly draining both wallets and fuel tanks – but they are easy to change.
Urbonas explained: “Many drivers are unaware that small changes to their driving habits and regular maintenance can make a substantial difference to fuel economy. These simple steps could reduce fuel consumption by between five and 10 per cent long- term, potentially saving individual drivers over £96 annually.”
Government data shows UK cars emit an average of 156.6 grams of CO2 per kilometre, with overall car and van emissions reaching 110 million tonnes of CO2 in 2024. Domestic transport – which includes cars and light vans – accounts for around 30 per cent of all emissions. While overall car emissions have dropped slightly in the last decade, emissions from light vans have increased.
For drivers, this isn’t just an environmental concern. Poor driving habits such as idling, carrying unnecessary weight, or failing to check tyres could be silently costing hundreds of pounds a year.
The top ten fuel-saving tips: Check tyre pressure regularly.
Tyres underinflated by just 15psi can increase fuel consumption by around 6
percent.Checkingpressures once a month takes only a few minutes. If a tyre visibly deforms when pressed by hand, it likely needs inflating. Drivers should always follow the manufacturer’s recommended settings, found in the handbook or on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
Maintain your vehicle properly. A poorly maintained engine can use up to 30 per cent more fuel. Regular servicing ensures engines run efficiently, while something as simple as replacing a clogged air filter can improve consumption by up to 10 per cent.
Remove unnecessary weight. Every extra 45kg carried reduces fuel efficiency by ont to two per cent. Many drivers use their cars as storage, carting around tools, golf clubs, or boxes. Clearing the boot of unnecessary items lightens the load and the fuel bill.
Reduce aerodynamic drag. Roof racks, boxes, or cycle carriers can increase fuel use by up to 10 per cent by creating drag. If not in use, they should be removed to help Drive smoothly
Rapid acceleration and harsh braking are two of the quickest ways to burn fuel. At motorway speeds, aggressive driving can increase fuel use by 15 to 30 per cent; in stop-start traffic, this can rise to 40 per cent. Anticipating traffic flow and maintaining steady speeds can make a big difference.
Use the correct gear. Engines are most efficient at lower RPMs. Drivers are advised to change gear at around 2,000 RPM for diesel and 2,500 RPM for petrol. Many newer vehicles also feature dashboard indicators showing the best time to change gear for efficiency.
Minimise engine idling. An idling car achieves zero miles per gallon. If
stationary for more than 10 seconds, drivers should switch off their engine. Start-stop technology, fitted in many modern cars, can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent in urban conditions.
Plan journeys efficiently. Cold engines use more fuel than warm ones. Combining errands into a single trip, ratherthanmakingmultiple short journeys, reduces fuel consumption. Using sat- nav to avoid traffic hotspots can also save both time and money.
Use air conditioning wisely. Running the air conditioning can increase fuel use by up to 10 per cent. At low speeds, opening windows is usually more efficient, though at higher speeds the drag from open windows can actually waste more fuel than air conditioning.
Use the correct engine oil. Sticking to the manufacturer’s recommended oil grade can improve fuel economy by one to two per cent. Modern synthetic oils are designed to reduce friction and help engines operate more efficiently.
While each adjustment may appear minor, collectively they can lead to substantial savings over the course of a year. For an average motorist, that could mean around £96 back in their pocket annually – not to mention the environmental benefits of reduced carbon emissions.
Urbonas concluded: “These are simple, practical steps that anyone can take. They don’t require expensive equipment or advanced knowledge, just a bit of attention and consistency. With fuel prices unlikely to fall significantly, improving efficiency is one of the most effective ways drivers can cut costs while also reducing their carbon footprint.”
