Most drivers can identify with having a love-hate relationship with fuel and its prices. We love it when the prices decrease and absolutely despise it when they increase (no matter the amount).

Saving a few extra bucks is something that will never get old – who wouldn’t want to have some spare cash with less effort? When it comes to fuel, you cannot simply depend on a price decrease to save you money.

Here are a few ways you can drive your way to fuel efficiency – and save:

1. Ease up on the accelerator. Accelerating may get you there faster, but it’s also costing you more. A gentler and consistent approach on your accelerator promotes fuel efficiency and helps you save as your tank’s range increases. Understanding the traffic ahead of you will also help you better manage your driving style – less accelerating and braking; try keeping your speed relatively even. If you have the option of cruise control, you may want to use it a little more – especially on the open highway.
2. Get your alignment in check.Your car’s wheel alignment impacts your fuel consumption – believe it or not! Regularly checking your wheel alignment and balance will improve the comfort of your drive and your fuel consumption.
3. Shed all the unnecessary weight from your car– if you don’t need to carry it around for your current trip or an emergency, take it out! Every bit of weight counts and impacts on your fuel consumption. Removing unnecessary weight from your car and only taking what is necessary for the trip will lighten the load and ease the amount of fuel needed to get your car moving.
4. Plan your trips and drive with purpose.Where possible, plan and combine your trips to cover as many errands as possible in fewer locations, with fewer stops. This will help you to avoid doing unnecessary mileage and, hopefully, avoid traffic. Always consider the time required for your trips – try to leave earlier to avoid traffic or speeding to get to your destination on time.
5. Get your tyre pressure right.The influence of your car’s tyre pressure on your fuel consumption is one that is often not given enough attention. Having your car’s tyres pumped to the right tyre pressure regularly aids in better driving. For example, low tyre pressure adds more resistance to your driving and thus consumes more fuel. Remember to check your tyres with every fill up.
6. Get your car serviced.Skimping on your car’s service in the name of “saving” will have a negative impact on you in the long run – and then your pocket will definitely feel the pinch! Proper services for your car goes a long way as the quality of the parts affects performance, reliability and usability of the car. Having a car that has parts working against each other only makes other parts have to work harder to keep going – which can also tap into your fuel consumption.

With the lifestyles many of us lead, we constantly have to find alternative ways to save money – fuel efficient driving is one such way. Even with the decrease in petrol price every now and then, you can never say no to added savings.

Saving money on your car isn’t the only thing you should be concerned about. See if you can spend less money on car insurance by opting for a policy that’s tailored to suit your budget. Get an online insurance quote today.