With the price of fuel now reaching record highs it is more important than ever to try and keep costs in check. Unfortunately, we cannot control the cost of petrol and diesel but we can go some way to cutting fuel bills by following these simple driving tips:
A change of driving style
=B7 Accelerate smoothly and gradually. =B7 Keep a safe distance from the car in front and brake gradually and inplenty of time. =B7 Read the road so that you can adjust your speed to avoid late braking. =B7 Slow down. Higher speeds increase fuel consumption and only result in very marginal decreases in journey time. =B7 Remember better driving habits can cut fuel consumption by as much as 20%.
Ditching the excess
=B7 Extra weight uses more fuel so remove unnecessary items from your boot or back seat and do not travel with a roof rack that is not in use.
Peak condition
=B7 Having your car in peak condition means better economy, so make sure your car is regularly serviced. =B7 Carry out basic checks yourself on tyres and fluid levels. Did you know tyres which are 7psi under inflated will increase fuel consumption by around 3%.
Sensible steps
=B7 Plan journeys to make them dual purpose where possible. =B7 Close your windows when travelling at speed. Open windows at 70 mph increase fuel consumption by up to 10%.
The right tools for the job
=B7 Remember newer vehicles generally offer better economy, but most vehicles can offer reasonable fuel consumption figures if well maintained and sensibly driven.
Frank Byrnes , Managing Director of Frank Byrnes Autobody Repairs