Four techniques to prevent fuel waste as petrol prices hit four-year high

UK petrol prices have reached 161.6p per litre, the highest since November 2022, while diesel has climbed to 183.4p

With the summer holidays over, families across the UK are preparing to return to their usual routines, with school runs and daily commutes putting more cars back on the road. This return comes as motorists face some of the highest fuel prices seen in recent years.

Average UK petrol prices rose to 161.6p per litre ahead of the August bank holiday weekend, its highest level since November 2022, while diesel averaged 183.4p per litre. As fuel prices remain high and people return to their daily routines, Paul Johnson, Forecourt Manager at Vertu Nissan Widnes, shares a number of simple driving tips to help motorists save fuel and cut costs this September.

1. Lift off the accelerator early and let the engine do the braking

In congested traffic, many drivers accelerate towards the car ahead and brake sharply when it slows. This cycle is one of the biggest causes of fuel waste in heavy conditions, Paul says. According to government eco-driving guidance, aggressive acceleration and braking can increase fuel consumption by 10–40% in stop-start driving.

Paul adds that modern fuel-injected engines cut the fuel supply entirely when the driver lifts off the accelerator while still in gear. This means the car decelerates on zero fuel. “By leaving a slightly larger gap and anticipating traffic conditions ahead, drivers can remain in gear for longer and reduce unnecessary braking, which will help to save fuel”, he said.

2. Cruise at 60mph when the road is clear

On longer school runs and commuting journeys, it can be tempting to travel at the maximum permitted speed whenever the road is clear. However, driving faster increases aerodynamic drag, meaning the engine has to work harder and fuel consumption rises.

According to the Climate Change Committee, driving at 70 mph uses around 15% more fuel than cruising at 60 mph. Paul says that, where conditions allow, maintaining a steady 60 mph and using cruise control on clear, flat stretches can help reduce unnecessary fuel use.

He says the difference in journey time is relatively small, adding around two extra minutes to a 20 mile journey, but the savings in fuel can quickly add up to a large saving.

3. Avoid unnecessary idling

School runs and everyday driving often involve short periods of stop-start traffic, especially outside schools, at junctions, crossings and busy bottlenecks. Leaving the engine running while stationary uses fuel without moving you anywhere.

If traffic has come to a complete standstill and you expect to be waiting, switch the engine off when it is safe and appropriate to do so. If your car has automatic stop-start, let the system do it for you, Paul says.

On regular school runs and commuting to and from work, avoiding unnecessary idling will reduce fuel consumption over time and lower emissions, he adds. The Highway Code (Rule 123) also states that drivers must not leave a vehicle engine running unnecessarily while stationary on a public road.

4. Check your tyre pressure after summer trips

Regardless of the time of year, it’s always worth checking your tyre pressures as part of your regular car maintenance routine, but even more so following a busy summer of longer journeys and day trips around the country, Paul says. Incorrectly inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, meaning the engine has to work harder and use more fuel.

Check all four tyres against the manufacturer’s recommended pressures, usually found on a sticker inside the driver’s door frame or in the owner’s manual. Paul says: “If you’ve recently carried extra passengers or luggage, remember to return the pressures to the manufacturer’s recommended setting for normal driving once the vehicle is unloaded.”

Always check tyre pressures when the tyres are cold for the most accurate reading. While you’re checking, look for any visible damage or unusual wear and make sure the tread is within the legal limit.