Fuel prices aren’t exactly doing us any favours these days. Whether you’re commuting to work, doing the school run, or just running errands around town, improving your car’s fuel efficiency can save you serious cash over time. And the good news? You don’t need a hybrid or fancy tech to do it—just a few simple habits can make a noticeable difference.
Here are some practical, easy-to-follow tips to help you stretch every litre, every day.
1. Don’t Drive Like You’re in a Race
We’ve all done it—hit the accelerator a bit too hard or braked a little too suddenly. But quick acceleration and harsh braking are fuel guzzlers.
Instead:
Drive smoothly. Ease into your acceleration and coast to a stop when you can. Not only will you use less fuel, but your car will thank you too (hello, longer-lasting brakes and tyres).
2. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly
Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which means your engine has to work harder—and that burns more fuel.
Quick tip:
Check your tyre pressure at least once a month. Most service stations have free air pumps, and your car’s ideal pressure is usually listed on a sticker inside the driver’s door.
3. Lighten the Load
The heavier your car, the more fuel it uses. Carrying around unnecessary items—like that bag of tools you meant to return to the garage six months ago—adds up over time.
Try this:
Clear out your boot and only carry what you really need. It’s an easy win that can shave off some fuel usage.
4. Keep Your Car Serviced
A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Dirty air filters, old spark plugs, and clogged fuel injectors can reduce performance and increase fuel consumption.
What to do:
Stick to your logbook servicing schedule. Even just keeping your oil clean and your filters changed can help you save on fuel long term.
5. Cut the Idle Time
If you’re waiting in the car for someone or stuck in long queues, idling wastes fuel unnecessarily.
Helpful habit:
If you know you’ll be stopped for more than a minute or two, turn the engine off. Modern engines don’t need long warm-ups, especially in Australia’s climate.
6. Use the Air Con Wisely
Air conditioning can increase fuel consumption, especially on short trips. But driving with the windows down at high speeds can actually use more fuel too (due to drag).
So what’s the balance?
Use the A/C on highways and roll down the windows at lower speeds. And if it’s not too hot—just go without.
7. Plan Your Trips Better
Short trips use more fuel because the engine doesn’t get a chance to reach its most efficient operating temperature. Running multiple errands in one go is more fuel-friendly than making separate trips.
Pro tip:
Plan your route to avoid traffic lights, peak-hour congestion, and backtracking. A little planning goes a long way.
8. Don’t Ignore That “Check Engine” Light
A small problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, might not seem urgent—but it can significantly affect your fuel economy.
Action step:
If your dashboard lights up, get it checked. It could be a quick fix that helps both your wallet and your car’s health.
9. Stick to the Speed Limit
Going faster doesn’t always mean you’ll arrive earlier—especially if you’re burning through extra fuel just to sit in traffic at the next red light.
The sweet spot:
Most cars are most efficient between 80–100 km/h. Anything above that can reduce fuel efficiency noticeably.
10. Use Cruise Control on Highways
On long, flat stretches, cruise control helps maintain a steady speed, which is more fuel-efficient than constantly accelerating and decelerating.
Bonus tip:
Just avoid using it on hilly roads, where cruise control can actually use more fuel trying to maintain speed uphill.
Before You Fill Up Again…
Fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money—it’s also about reducing wear on your car and cutting down on emissions. With a few daily habits and a little awareness, you can make your tank last longer and your ride smoother.
Next time you head out, try just one or two of these tips. They’re easy to do, cost you nothing, and over time, you’ll start noticing the difference—not just in your fuel budget, but in how your car drives too.
If you are in Beaumaris, and looking for a cash for cars service, this is the best way to visit us.
Brighton Car Removals
100 Church St, Brighton VIC 3186
www.brightoncarremovals.com.au