Petrol and diesel prices have rocketed upwards due to the war in Ukraine.

Not only this, fuel stations appear to be running low due to the shortage of tank drivers as Covid is still causing mayhem in the UK, writes Matt Peacock, MD, Star Tech in Poole.

With oil prices increasing, we thought we should give a little refresher to help car owners remain as fuel efficient as possible given the current economic climate.

Based on current fuel prices, the average family car with a typical 55-litre tank will cost an extra £19 to fill with unleaded compared to this time last year.

Making small changes to the way you drive and maintaining your car will certainly benefit you.

Check your tyres

Keep your tyres inflated. Lower tyre pressure increases the drag on a car meaning you need more fuel, so regularly check the pressures are correct. Underinflated tyres can lead to uneven wear and are estimated to impact a car’s fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent.

Good tyre condition is vital for fuel efficiency and safety. Worryingly, badly worn tyres can drastically affect the driving performance, braking distance and are more vulnerable to punctures. A hefty fine and points on your licence could come your way too. Keep an eye on your tyre treads. Our team can advise if in doubt.

Make sure your car is in optimum health

We cannot stress the importance of regular servicing. Adhering to your manufacturer’s service schedule, a professional independent specialist (like us!) will ensure only manufacturer specific parts are fitted to your car and that the correct recommended oil is supplied. Good car maintenance will ensure that your car performs efficiently resulting in better miles to the gallon.

Change your driving habits

Accelerate gradually without over-revving. Press harder on the pedal and more fuel flows. You can reach the same speed using less power. As a very rough rule, stay under 3,000 revs.

Slow naturally rather than braking hard and often. Allow your car to use its stored momentum. You will cause less wear to the brakes so they will last longer resulting in lower costs to you.

Use the highest gear possible for your car without labouring the engine and keep within the speed limit to help you achieve a high mpg.

Declutter your car

Do you really need to cart the golf clubs around everywhere you go? Remove roof boxes and roof racks when you are not using them as they make your car less fuel efficient due to the drag effect.

Air conditioning & heating

Using the air conditioning or the heater in your car can increase fuel consumption by as much as 10% on shorter journeys. Dress to the weather rather than relying on your car’s heating or air con on every journey. That said, lack of use of these systems can lead to a build up of mould and bacteria. So the rule is…everything in moderation.

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Star Tech Ltd is an established Independent Specialist for Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar, Smart & Mini.

Based in Poole, we celebrate 16 years of business this month.

We offer Servicing, Diagnostics, Repairs, MOTs, Tyres & Air Conditioning recharges/servicing.

Call our service team on 01202 694758 for more info.