How Can I Get Better Fuel Economy? Drive Smarter, Spend Less
Fuel prices go up, come down, then go right back up again. It’s a rollercoaster none of us signed up for. But whether you’re driving a compact hatch or a double cab bakkie, improving fuel economy isn’t just about saving money – it’s about driving smarter and protecting your engine too.
“It’s not about driving less. It’s about driving better.”
So, how can you get better mileage without giving up your daily commute or weekend adventures? Here’s your complete guide.
1. Drive Like a Gentleman (or at Least Like a Grown-Up)
Rapid acceleration, hard braking, and aggressive driving habits don’t just wear out your tyres and brakes – they waste fuel. According to studies, driving sensibly can improve your fuel efficiency by 10–40%.
Pro Tip:
Pretend there’s a bowl of water on your dashboard. Drive in a way that doesn’t spill it.
2. Maintain Your Tyres
Low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance, which makes your engine work harder to keep you moving. That means more fuel burned.
- Check your tyre pressure at least on a regular say evetime you put fuel in (and before long trips).
- Inflate tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended levels – found on the inside of the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.
Under-inflated tyres can reduce fuel economy by up to 3%.
3. Lighten the Load
Carrying unnecessary weight – like old tools, camping gear, or last month’s gym clothes – makes your car burn more fuel. Every 50kg you carry unnecessarily can increase fuel consumption by 1–2%.
Reminder: Your boot is not a second garage.
4. Don’t Idle Too Long
Modern engines don’t need to “warm up” for 10 minutes. Idling wastes fuel and produce unnecessary emissions.
If you’re stopping for more than 60 seconds (excluding traffic), consider switching off the engine. You’ll save fuel and reduce wear.
5. Keep Your Car Properly Serviced
A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. That means:
- Clean air filters allow better airflow (and combustion)
- Regular oil changes reduce friction and engine strain
- Clean spark plugs help efficient ignition
- A working oxygen sensor ensures proper fuel-air mixture
A faulty oxygen sensor alone can drop fuel economy by up to 20%!
Rule of thumb: Keep up with your car’s service schedule. It’s cheaper than replacing worn parts or dealing with engine issues later.
6. Use Cruise Control – Wisely
Cruise control on flat roads can help maintain a steady speed and save fuel. But on hilly terrain, it can cause unnecessary acceleration, so use it strategically.
Tip: Try to stay at a consistent speed between 90–110 km/h on highways. That’s the fuel-efficiency sweet spot for most vehicles.
7. Ditch Roof Racks and Excess Accessories
Those roof boxes, racks, and bull bars might look rugged – but they add drag. Increased wind resistance makes your engine work harder, especially at highway speeds.
A roof rack can reduce fuel economy by up to 10% on a freeway!
8. Choose the Right Gear
If you drive a manual, staying in too low a gear burns more fuel. Upshift sooner without labouring the engine.
Golden rule: High revs = more fuel burned. Aim for smooth acceleration, timely gear changes, and keeping revs within the torque band – not redlining at every robot.
Fun Fact:
Using your car’s air conditioner at low speeds can reduce fuel economy by up to 25%, but at highway speeds, open windows cause more drag than the AC. Pick your poison wisely.
Quote to Remember:
“Saving fuel isn’t about crawling down the highway – it’s about controlling the little things under the bonnet and behind the wheel.”
Conclusion
Getting better fuel economy isn’t rocket science. It’s about consistent maintenance, small changes in driving habits, and being mindful of how your car works. These little habits, when added up, can make a noticeable difference in your wallet – and in how long your car stays in top shape.
And remember, fuel economy isn’t just about spending less. It’s about making your car work smarter, not harder.