Save money with our top driving tips

You can’t control the price of petrol, but you can control how much petrol you use. If you’re thinking about money saving, you should be thinking about driving more efficiently. This usually comes down to two main factors: the car you’re driving and how you’re driving.

We’ve put together a few practical driving tips for better fuel efficienty, so you can save on your next visit to the petrol station.

Don't accelerate quickly or stamp on the brakes – rather ride smoother and coast to a stop.

While the lower gears such as first and second are known as power gears as they generate more power, they also consume a lot more fuel. Tryuse the higher gears as much as possible without stalling your car. When appropriate, use your cruise control on a highway, which can also save on petrol.

Only use aircons and seat warmers when necessary as these increase fuel use too.

Regular car maintenance such as air-filter changes, oil changes and spark plug replacements can improve your vehicle’s fuel economy.

When you park in the shade, keep your car cool tominimise the evaporation of petrol.

Check your tyre pressure at least once a month. Under-inflated tires burn more fuel.

Revving your engine, particularly just before you turn the engine off wastes petrol unnecessarily.

Don’t leave your car idling for more than a minute, as this consumes unnecessary fuel.

The heavier your car is, the more fuel it will burn so try to only carry what is absolutely necessary.

Thankfully, car manufacturers are becoming more aware of their impact on the environment and as a result each year we are seeing vehicle producers making massive strides in developing more fuel efficient models. Fuel efficient cars are important – not only do they save you money, but they also reduce pollution and smog by up to 50%.

If you drive an older car, it’s important to keep your car regularly serviced and maintained because this helps ensure fuel efficiency. Fluids need to be changed and replaced as needed, repairs need to be managed, tyres should be maintained, etc. – if you’re on top of this your car’s fuel efficiency shouldn’t be too negatively impacted. Invest in your car and our environment by purchasing a Service Plan through MotorHappy. A Service Plan through MotorHappy offers you a convenient way of budgeting so you can service your car as and focus on money saving when it comes to driving. Click here to find out more.