With the ever-rising fuel prices in our country, every motorist is feeling the pinch at the pump. Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits is no longer just a suggestion—it’s a necessity. Below are five practical and actionable tips to help you conserve petrol, cut costs, and drive smarter on South African roads.
Top 5 Driving Tips to Save Petrol
1. Maintain Optimal Tyre Pressure
One of the simplest yet most effective ways to save fuel is to ensure your tyres are properly inflated. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and consume more petrol. Regularly check your tyre pressure and keep it within the manufacturer’s recommended range, which is usually listed on the inside of your driver’s side door or in the vehicle’s manual.
In addition, over-inflated tyres can wear unevenly and may reduce your car’s handling on the road, so balance is key. Properly inflated tyres not only improve fuel efficiency but also extend the lifespan of your tyres, saving you money in the long term.
2. Plan Your Journey Wisely
Efficient route planning can drastically reduce fuel consumption. By avoiding congested areas and planning your trips during off-peak hours, you minimise time spent idling in traffic—a major contributor to wasted petrol. Make use of navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze, which offer real-time traffic updates and suggest alternate routes to help you reach your destination faster. Combining multiple errands into a single trip can also save fuel by reducing the need for frequent cold starts, which consume more petrol.
3. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Aggressive Behaviour
Rapid acceleration, sudden braking, and speeding are some of the quickest ways to drain your fuel tank. Aggressive driving not only increases fuel consumption but also puts unnecessary stress on your engine and brakes.
Adopt a smooth and steady driving style by anticipating traffic conditions. For instance, instead of racing to a red light, coast towards it and let the car slow down naturally. Maintaining a consistent speed, especially on highways, is another effective way to conserve fuel. If your vehicle is equipped with cruise control, use it when driving on long, open stretches of road to help maintain a constant speed and optimise fuel usage.
4. Use Air Conditioning Sparingly
While air conditioning provides much-needed relief during hot South African summers, it also increases fuel consumption. The AC system draws power from the engine, forcing it to burn more petrol.
To reduce fuel usage, use air conditioning sparingly and consider setting it to a moderate temperature instead of blasting it at full power. On cooler days, open your windows slightly to allow natural ventilation. Parking in shaded areas or using sunshades can also keep your car cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning when you get back in.
5. Keep Your Vehicle Well-Maintained
A well-maintained car is a fuel-efficient car. Regular servicing ensures your vehicle operates at peak performance and doesn’t consume unnecessary fuel. Key maintenance practices include:
- Checking your air filters: A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, reducing its efficiency and increasing fuel consumption.
- Using the correct motor oil: Always use the oil grade recommended by your car manufacturer, as this can optimise engine performance and fuel economy.
- Keeping your engine tuned: Addressing issues such as misfiring spark plugs or a malfunctioning oxygen sensor can improve your mileage significantly.
By staying on top of your car’s maintenance schedule, you can avoid costly repairs down the road while ensuring you get the best fuel efficiency possible.
Additional Tip: Travel Light
Excess weight in your vehicle increases fuel consumption. Remove unnecessary items from your boot or backseat, and only carry what you need. Detach roof racks or carriers when not in use, as they create aerodynamic drag and force your car to burn more petrol to maintain speed.
By incorporating these practical tips into your daily driving habits, you can save petrol, cut costs, and contribute to a more sustainable future. With rising fuel prices continuing to challenge South African motorists, every litre saved counts—not just for your pocket but also for the environment. Safe and efficient driving starts with small, consistent changes that lead to long-term benefits.
Also read: Petrol Prices: Countries That Pay R1000 Less on a Tank of Petrol vs South Africa
