There are several factors that directly influence how much fuel your vehicle uses.
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After a period of consecutive fuel price drops in recent months that saw prices drop to a four-year low, the good times seem to have come to an end. This month, there was an increase of 20 cents for 93 and 95 petrol, while diesel rose by between 62 and 65 cents per litre.
Unfortunately, this looks like it’s only the beginning with geopolitical tensions in the Middle East fanning the flames of volatility. Reducing fuel consumption now becomes a practical response rather than an option.
While most of us are familiar with advice such as avoiding excessive idling and keeping speeds in check, several other factors directly influence how much fuel your vehicle uses.
Engine oil is often overlooked. Using oil with the incorrect viscosity increases resistance inside the engine. Pistons and other moving components work harder, which in turn increases fuel consumption.
To keep things running as they should, follow the manufacturer’s specifications in the owner’s manual and replace oil at the recommended intervals.
Tyre condition also plays a role. Under-inflated tyres increase rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder to maintain speed.
Misalignment has a similar effect, as does uneven wear. Regularly checking tyre pressures and ensuring alignment is within specification can reduce unnecessary fuel use, while also improving safety.
Servicing remains critical. Worn spark plugs, clogged air filters and neglected fuel filters affect combustion efficiency.
On modern engines, tired or partially blocked injectors can further increase consumption. Sticking to scheduled service intervals keeps the engine operating as designed.
Wheel balancing is another area often ignored. Poorly balanced wheels create vibration and additional drag, particularly at highway speeds. Over time, this adds to rolling resistance and can marginally increase fuel usage while accelerating tyre wear.
Driving style remains one of the biggest variables.
Staying in the wrong gear, allowing revs to climb unnecessarily, or accelerating harshly from a standstill all increase consumption. In manual vehicles, poor clutch control or a worn clutch can further waste fuel. Using higher gears where appropriate and maintaining steady throttle inputs reduces demand on the engine.
Short trips are also inefficient. Journeys under 5km use more fuel because the engine has not yet reached optimal operating temperature.
During warm-up, most engines run a richer fuel mixture. Combining errands into a single trip allows the vehicle to operate at normal efficiency for longer.
Excess weight is another hidden factor.
Carrying unnecessary items in the boot or loading roof racks that are seldom used increases the vehicle’s mass and aerodynamic drag. Removing unused roof carriers and clearing out heavy items can make a measurable difference over time.
Aerodynamics matter at higher speeds.
Driving with windows fully open at highway speeds increases drag, as does mounting bulky accessories on the exterior. At cruising speeds, small reductions in drag translate into lower fuel demand.
Route planning can reduce fuel use without altering the vehicle itself.
Avoiding peak traffic where possible limits stop-start driving, which is typically less efficient than steady cruising. Using navigation apps to select less congested routes can lower overall consumption.
With petrol and diesel costs likely to increase again, at least for the next few months, incremental savings across these areas can help stretch every tank further.