10 Tips to Maximize Petrol Mileage
In this current climate of high fuel prices, it’s more important than ever to get the most out of each litre. Prices at the pump have skyrocketed in the past months and may continue to rise, according to The Guardian. So, it’s time to improve the fuel efficiency of your car.
Don’t know how to do this? Fortunately, MotorServ UK know some ways to squeeze a bit more mileage out of your tank. Here are 10 tips to help you increase your mileage and maximize petrol:
1. Plan your journey to maximize petrol
Who likes to be stuck in traffic anyway? By planning your journey and figuring out mileage calculations, you will avoid busy roads. Congestion is a nightmare at peak times. Planning ahead, taking into account time and the route also helps you combine journeys.
Before leaving the house, consider your route and the number of stops you can make on one round trip. Several short trips during the day increase fuel consumption due to cold starts. A warm engine operates more efficiently.
2. Slow down to maximize petrol
Did you know that if you drive at 75mph instead of 60mph you will use around 18% more fuel? That’s why the Vehicle Certification Agency recommends reducing your speed to increase your MPG. But, don’t exaggerate as slow speeds at low gears will have the opposite effect. Remember you should drive according to the speed limits.
3. Drive at a constant speed to maximize petrol
When possible, reduce fuel consumption by keeping your speed steady. Accelerating and decelerating burns more fuel than travelling at a constant speed.
4. Be gentle with the car brakes to maximize petrol
Avoid slamming on the brakes. Heavy braking can cause your engine to burn fuel faster. Pay attention to the road conditions further ahead so you can react on time and slow down gently.
5. Take out unnecessary weight to maximize petrol
The heavier your vehicle is, the harder it must work to accelerate or slow down. Remove the unnecessary and heavy stuff from your boot.
6.Avoid idling to maximize petrol
On top of polluting the atmosphere, you are wasting fuel when your engine is idling. Switch off the engine if you’re going to be at a standstill for a couple of minutes.
7. Improve the aerodynamics of your car and avoid drag to maximize petrol
The easier your car moves through the air, the more fuel-efficient it will be. To achieve this, you can:
- Remove roof boxes, roof racks and bike racks
- Consider selecting smoother wheels
- Close your windows when driving at higher speed
8. Use air conditioning and heating moderately to maximize petrol
During the summer don’t use the AC when driving at low speeds. Open the windows instead. In winter, use the heater in moderation. If improving your petrol mileage and getting better mileage rates is a big concern, make sure you’re dressed for the weather, even inside your vehicle. Both the heating and the AC can increase fuel consumption.
9. Check your tyre pressure to maximize petrol
Your vehicle engine will have to work harder if the tyres are under-inflated as they will create resistance. Checking your tyre pressure often will save you a lot of money in the long run. Be sure to check out our blog on ‘What to do if your tyre pressure drops’.
And last but not least…
10. Maintain your car well to maximize petrol
From checking the fluid levels of your engine to general wear and tear, maintaining and servicing your car regularly will improve your tank mileage. Our blog on ‘Car maintenance checklist’ will teach you our top tips for car maintenance.
These were MotorServ UK´s 10 tips to get more mileage out of each tank.
Our purpose is to offer a one-of-a-kind car maintenance and repair service, whilst saving you as much money as possible. We offer MOT services as well as vehicle servicing. Don’t hesitate to contact us today.
