Saving fuel should be top of mind for motorists

With the near unaffordable price of fuel, its usage has become a critical element to consider when buying a new or pre-owned vehicle.

The engine technology in cars has improved significantly over the years. As a result, even larger vehicles, such as SUVs and 4×4 bakkies offer better fuel economy than in the past.

It is important to note that the fuel index, as provided by the original engine manufacturer, is not the alpha and the omega of fuel consumption.

It helps, but ultimately your driving style, road and driving conditions, age and mechanical health of your car and tyre pressure and condition will determine your car’s real fuel-use index.

There is not much that you can do about the price of fuel. There are, however, steps that you can take to lower the quantity of fuel you use over the distance that you drive.

 10 fuel-saving tips

• Ensure your vehicle is mechanically sound. This requires regular servicing, by either the manufacturer of your car or a registered and approved service provider. Servicing your vehicle with a retail motor industry-registered supplier provides extra peace of mind.
• Reduce load weight. Fitting larger and wider wheels and tyres increases your fuel consumption, so stick with what the manufacturer recommends. Roof racks and unneeded cargo also increase the amount of fuel needed, so remove roof racks when not in use and empty your boot of unnecessary items. Every 50kg of extra weight can increase fuel consumption by as much as 2%.
• Drive with the windows closed. Vehicle designs aim to optimise the flow of air across the exterior. Open windows suck air into the car, which decreases its drag coefficient and increases the use of fuel.
• Using the air-conditioner less will also improve fuel consumption.
• Drive as smoothly as possible. Avoid excessive hard braking and enthusiastic pull-offs. If possible, slow down gradually.
• Eliminate idling as much as possible. You do not need to idle your car to warm the engine before driving.
• Check the tyre pressure at least once a month. Wheel balance and alignment need to be checked every 8 000 – 10 000 kilimetres. Over or under-inflated tyres will cause excessive tyre wear and influence your fuel consumption.
• Plan your trips and the routes you drive. Use Google maps to prevent driving around while searching for your destination.
• Stay within the prescribed speed limit. Excessive speed, harsh braking and sudden acceleration are not fuel-friendly.
• Keep your following distance. This will help you read and anticipate the traffic and road conditions and plan your reaction, which will minimise fuel-heavy manoeuvres.

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