This article was originally published in May 2022 and has been updated.
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Fuel prices often yo-yo, but these days, filling up the tank can make up a big part of our weekly expenses. So, here’s our 7 tips to save money at the pump and make your dollar go a little bit further.
The My NRMA app connects you to a variety of benefits and discounts, and the fuel finder feature doesn’t disappoint. Fuel finder allows you to search by fuel type, distance and price to access real-time fuel prices from all stations across NSW. You can even save up to 5 cents per litre on fuel at participating Ampol service stations. Once you do fill up and need to head to your next location, don’t fret about finding a parking space. The My NRMA app can help you with that too.
When you shop at well-known grocery stores such as Coles and Woolworths, you’ll often find a discount voucher for fuel on the back of your receipt or as a perk that’s part of your rewards card. These can be used to save a few cents per litre on fuel and can add up in savings in the long run. Even when using vouchers, it’s always good to check the My NRMA app for the best prices in your area, as sometimes service stations that offer discounts can have higher prices than independent service stations close by, so the voucher may not always save you money.
If you can plan your drive outside of peak-hour times, you could help your tank go a little further. Cars can use a lot more fuel in stop-start, bumper-to-bumper traffic, because you need to be on and off the pedals. If you can leave earlier or decide on a route that allows for more free-flow driving, you can drive more economically.
Put the windows down and keep the air-conditioning switched off when the weather is nice. In urban driving, this can reduce fuel consumption by up to 10 per cent. On the other hand, if you’re driving at high speed (100km/h or more) the drag created by having your windows down is worse on your wallet than using the air-conditioning.
You might be guilty of it: storing excessive items on your car’s roof racks or in the boot or backseat. But did you know that finding them a permanent home could make a big difference to your fuel economy? Extra weight increases fuel consumption – it’s a fact. So, help yourself save money on fuel and help your car travel lighter by removing any unnecessary weight.
More revs equal more fuel usage, so try to be mindful when speeding up and take it easy on the accelerator. Always maintain a safe distance between you and the car in front and go with the flow of traffic. By doing this, you’ll avoid unnecessary acceleration and repetitive braking that ends up wasting your precious fuel.
Keeping your car properly serviced and tuned can help minimise your vehicle’s emissions and fuel usage, helping you save some money in the long run. To ensure your car is running smoothly, safely, and soundly, it’s recommended to service your car every six months or at the intervals specified in your vehicle’s manufacturer handbook.
If your car needs a tune up, consider bringing it into one of the many Motorserve stores where expert mechanics proudly serve NRMA Insurance. From logbook servicing to major repairs, their qualified mechanics go that extra mile to make sure your vehicle is as safe as possible for you and your loved ones. This includes a 100+ point safety and service check for every car service.
All content on the NRMA Insurance Blog is intended to be general in nature and does not constitute and is not intended to be professional advice.
