How to drive down your fuel costs!
Petrol and diesel have continued to rise to record new highs at the pumps and many drivers are feeling more and more squeezed, particularly if they are unable to cut down on their journeys. According to the AA, the UK has the eighth highest unleaded price in Europe and the second highest diesel costs.
So, with money tight, the Good Garage Scheme is giving advice to motorists on how to improve vehicle fuel efficiency. A major tip is to continue to have your vehicle serviced; saving the pounds by cutting out on essential servicing could prove to be ‘false economy’ and possibly a more expensive lesson further down the road.
Money’s tight so do I really need to service my car?
Regular vehicle servicing will help to ensure YOUR car is safe, runs smoothly and drives at its optimum operating performance. That means trying to get as many miles to the gallon out of your car as possible. New engine oil, air and oil filters, flushing out contaminants in the engine and fuel system, having correct tyre pressures and correct wheel alignment all contribute to better performance – resulting in more miles in the tank than you would have had without a service. And with fuel prices still rising, vehicle efficiency and improved fuel performance have become more important than ever!
What if I don’t bother?
So you save a few pounds by not having a service…or do you? Driving with the incorrect tyre pressure alone can significantly reduce fuel efficiency. Poor wheel alignment can lead to your car pulling to one side, reducing fuel efficiency while increasing wear and tear on your tyres. System contamination and increased wear and tear on components can be caused by failure to change the oil. It can all add up to one thing – a potentially hefty repair bill when problems that could have been avoided start to crop up. Plus, having a full service history is a key part of the vehicle’s residual value should you come to sell it. STILL think you’re making a saving?
How can I save money?
You can further improve fuel efficiency by emptying the car of any heavy items not needed for the journey and switching off components such as heated rear windows when not required.
You could also change your driving habits! Heavy acceleration and heavy braking are believed to use up to 60% more fuel. Plus, the Department for Transport says driving at 70mph uses up to 9% more fuel than at 60mph and up to 15% more than at 50mph. Cruising at 80mph can use up to 25% more fuel than at 70mph.
Finally, know where you are going. Latest statistics have revealed that over 350,000 tonnes of fuel used each year are a result of people getting lost.
Is it time for a service?
Please look for your nearest UK-wide Good Garage Scheme at www.goodgaragescheme.com and type in your postcode to find your nearest member garage.
The Good Garage Scheme
‘It’s like having a friend in the know’
Gary Lillistone, Bridge PR on tel: 024 76 520025, email:garyl@bridgepr.co.uk
Anndi Sheppard, Forte Lubricants a division of ITW Ltd, on tel: 024 76 472649
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