Top 5 Driving Tips to Save Petrol

Looking to cut down on fuel costs? These top 5 driving tips to save petrol will help you drive smarter, reduce fuel consumption, and stretch every drop of petrol further. With rising fuel prices affecting drivers across South Africa, applying a few simple techniques can make a noticeable difference.

ALSO READ: Top 10 Most Fuel-Efficient Cars in 2025

1. Maintain a Steady Speed

One of the easiest ways to save petrol is to avoid sudden acceleration or braking. Constant speeding up and slowing down increases fuel consumption. Instead, aim to maintain a steady speed whenever possible. On highways, use cruise control to help manage this.

In urban areas, anticipate traffic flow by reading the road ahead. Slowing down gradually instead of slamming on the brakes helps reduce fuel usage while also protecting your brakes.

2. Avoid Idling for Too Long

Leaving your car idling wastes petrol. Whether you’re waiting to pick someone up or stuck in heavy traffic, idling for extended periods burns fuel without moving you forward. If you’re stationary for more than 60 seconds, it’s generally more fuel-efficient to switch off your engine and restart when you’re ready to move again.

Modern engines are designed to use minimal fuel when starting, so don’t worry about burning more petrol by turning off your engine at traffic lights or drive-thrus.

3. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly

Driving with underinflated tyres increases rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and use more fuel. Make sure your tyres are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure levels, which can be found in your car manual or inside the driver’s side door.

Checking tyre pressure at least once a month can improve fuel efficiency and extend the lifespan of your tyres a double win.

4. Lighten Your Load

Every extra kilogram in your car means your engine has to work harder, which uses more petrol. If your boot is full of unnecessary items like sports gear, tools, or luggage remove what you don’t need. The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it consumes.

Also, remove roof racks or carriers if you’re not using them. They create wind resistance and negatively impact your car’s aerodynamics, especially at high speeds.

5. Keep Up With Car Maintenance

A well-maintained car is a fuel-efficient car. Regular services ensure your engine is running smoothly and that components like spark plugs, air filters, and fuel injectors are working properly. When these parts are worn out or dirty, your engine has to use more fuel to compensate.

Using the correct engine oil also plays a role. Check your car manual for the recommended oil grade using the wrong one can increase fuel consumption by up to 2%.

Drive Smart and Save More

By following these top 5 driving tips to save petrol, you can significantly reduce how much you spend on fuel each month. From steady driving and proper tyre care to maintaining your vehicle and avoiding unnecessary weight, every little change adds up.

Adopting fuel-efficient driving habits not only saves you money but also helps the environment by lowering your carbon emissions. Start with one or two of these tips and watch your fuel tank last longer.

Not only will these smart driving habits save you money, but they also contribute to a greener environment. Lower fuel consumption means fewer carbon emissions, making your daily drive more eco-friendly. Whether you’re commuting to work or heading out on a road trip, adopting fuel-efficient driving techniques is a practical and responsible choice. Start implementing these changes today and enjoy smoother drives with better mileage and less stress at the pump.