While QLMOBILE CARWASH can make your vehicle shine, there’s unfortunately not much we can do to make it consume less fuel. But there are a few things you can do! Did you know that by implementing a few simple fuel-efficient driving tips you could save up to 25% more fuel?
Here are our top ten fuel-saving driving tips:
1. Avoid rush hour traffic
Accelerating hard and idling your car for long periods of time can consume your fuel. Leave home a little earlier and work a little later or take quieter routes to your destination.
2. Have your vehicle serviced regularly
A vehicle gets less economical the older it gets. Little maintenance issues can also cause your vehicle to be less fuel-efficient. The only way to battle this is to take your vehicle for a service every year or according to the manufacturer’s recommendation (usually between 10,000 km and 20,000 km).
3. Measure your tire pressure regularly
If your vehicle’s tyres are underinflated too much it can increase fuel consumption. It can also greatly reduce the life of the tyres. Have petrol attendants check the tyre pressure every time you fill up or before any long trip. The correct tyre pressure is usually indicated on a sticker on the driver’s door.
4. Get rid of extra weight
Remove any extra baggage or items from your vehicle. Don’t leave heavy sports equipment, tools, or building materials like sand and bricks on the back of your vehicle. The heavier the load in and on your vehicle, the more fuel it will use. Remove roof or bicycle racks or even vehicle canopies if you’re not using them. The drag can increase fuel consumption when driving on highways or at high speeds.
5. Think two steps ahead
Don’t just react to the traffic and stretch of road in your immediate vicinity, think ahead. If you keep a good following distance and keep a close eye on road signs, pedestrians, and fellow road users, you can anticipate what they will do. This will help you keep to a steady speed, avoid unnecessary braking or acceleration, and help you save fuel. Plus, it will also make you a safer driver.
6. Slow down
Keeping to the speed limit will not only spare you traffic fines but also save on fuel. Most vehicles are designed to be the most fuel-efficient at speeds of 50-80 kph. Above this, the faster you go, the more fuel you will use.
7. Switch it off, don’t idle
When waiting for someone for longer than a minute, switch off your vehicle instead of letting it idle. Obviously, this won’t work if you’re in traffic, but it will save you fuel when waiting to pick up someone or loading something onto your vehicle.
8. Use the aircon sparingly
Switching on your vehicle’s aircon increases your vehicle’s fuel consumption, especially during short trips. If you’re driving at low speeds, it’s better to roll down the windows. Close your windows when driving at high speeds, as open windows increase drag and subsequent fuel consumption. When using the aircon, also turn on the recirculation button, as this will help to keep your car cooler with less effort from the aircon.
9. Plan your route and trips
The best way to save fuel is to drive less and take the shortest routes. If you have several stops to make, plan out the shortest route between the stops. Avoid traffic accidents, roads with an abundance of traffic lights and stops, or heavy traffic whenever possible, as this will impact your travel time and fuel consumption.
10. Consider alternatives
Join a carpool for traveling to work. Consider walking, cycling, or taking public transport (like government or tourist buses or the Gautrain). Ask a family member or friend to run an errand if it’s on their way.
So, while you’re driving safer and more fuel-efficient, let us take care of cleaning your vehicle and helping it look great. Find out where our nearest branch is and learn more about our services.