Tips for saving fuel in everyday driving

Sometimes we wonder how it is possible for our car to consume so much fuel. We see the amount of fuel drop far too quickly. There are many variables that can influence that consumption, so we want to offer you some tips that can help keep consumption under control and make it more moderate. In this way we can reduce it and manage to save a few euros over the course of the year.

One of the main reasons for excessive fuel consumption is the engine. An engine with a larger displacement consumes more fuel, which is normal. But besides the size and power of the engine, we find other variables that can cause the amount of petrol or diesel used to change because of them. Let’s review them.

Weight and load

It must be taken into account that the car weighs quite a lot and that every gram of weight requires energy to move. This means that a larger, heavier car will consume more than a car with less weight. Furthermore, the weight can vary depending on the equipment and the load.

A car that keeps the boot clean and empty whenever possible will weigh less. The habit of accumulating things in this storage space makes the car heavier and, consequently, the weight increases. You should also try to keep the interior clean and free of dirt. Dust does not represent extra weight, but removing bags full of clothing, for example suitcases or other items you won’t use, does help.

If you need to load the car, for a trip for example, it is advisable to load it properly. In this way the weight is better distributed and the car is prevented from swaying because of the shifting load. Small measures like these reduce consumption considerably.

There are other items that can be replaced to reduce weight. For example, the spare wheel can be replaced with a repair kit, which will free the car of several extra kilos. Another option is to remove the towbar if it is not used. This component tends to weigh quite a lot, and if it is not going to be used straight away, it is advisable to take it off, if that is possible.

By doing all this, it is possible to make the car shed several kilos, which in the long run has an effect on fuel consumption over the year. It comes down to not carrying anything in the car that is not essential and not forgetting those bags, suitcases or boxes in the boot when they are not in use.

Maintenance

The car’s maintenance is essential to ensure the engine runs well. The better it runs, the fewer problems there will be and fuel consumption will stay within acceptable limits. But if any engine component is damaged or worn, it can malfunction and make consumption soar.

Regular checks should be carried out to make sure everything is in order and that this irregular operation does not occur. If a hose is in poor condition, it should be replaced before it breaks, if the spark plugs are dirty combustion will be irregular and may require more petrol to run.

You need to get ahead of problems and keep the whole engine in good condition. Although this may seem expensive, in reality it saves money. On the one hand, because serious and costly breakdowns are avoided and on the other, because an engine in good condition saves money in everyday use.

Spark plugs, belts, oil, always clean and at the correct level, brake pads and discs in good condition, and in general good maintenance make it cheaper to drive the car day to day.

Sustainable driving

Another variable that greatly influences fuel consumption is the driving style. Driving aggressively, accelerating and braking frequently, is not the same. Using the pedals sensibly, shifting gears well and keeping a moderate speed can make the spending on petrol or diesel fall considerably.