How to save money on fuel in South Africa

Most motorists are acutely aware of the high fuel costs that negatively affect household budgets. Nonetheless, drivers can reduce fuel consumption and save money by applying the following tips.^1,2

According to the IOL article of 1 August 2023, there will be no relief for motorists with a 37 cents-per-litre increase in the price of 93 and 95 petrol⁴. Also, the diesel price will rise as much as 72 cents per litre⁴, thus affecting companies spending billions of rands of diesel to run their generators during loadshedding. Economists predict that the petrol and diesel prices will increase again later in 2023. ¹

South Africa adjusts its monthly fuel prices, depending on the rand exchange rate and global oil prices.¹

Remove any unnecessary weight in your car, such as a heavy parcel in the boot. The heavier your car, the harder the engine must work. ²

Instead of warming the car cabin with warm air from the air-conditioner, use hot air indirectly from the engine. Such a car heater works when air is blown over a small radiator that is heated by the engine coolant³. This way, you’ll save costs as the air-conditioner’s compressor needs fuel to operate. ²

On a hot day, you may be tempted to open the windows but is that a good idea? Yes, if you are travelling below 80 km/hour. But should you travel on the highway at 120 km/hour, close your windows and turn on the air-conditioner. This is because open windows cause too much drag at that speed, thereby increasing fuel consumption. ²

Under-inflated or soft tyres produce more running resistance, which makes the engine use more fuel. Studies conducted in the US indicate that 10% under-inflation can cause a 2% rise in fuel consumption. So be sure to check tyre pressures regularly, using the manufacturer’s figures shown on the inside of the driver’s door or in the handbook. ²

Seeing the engine is the only fuel-consuming culprit, it will use less for less work. So, avoid racing your car from traffic light to traffic light. Some cars indicate on the dashboard when to change gears and so save fuel. ²

The less you travel, the less fuel you’ll use – so plan carefully and avoid wasting trips. Travel apps will help you to take the least congested or shortest routes. Idling too long in heavy traffic consumes fuel, so switch off after 30 seconds, unless you are in a modern car that stops idling by itself. ²

An optimally tuned car uses less fuel than one needing a service. Worn spark plugs can increase fuel consumption by 30%.²

The article explains how to save money on fuel in South Africa. ^1,2

If you haven’t been able to afford much on car cover, here’s the chance to buy increased insurance through fuel savings. Contact us at Prime South Africa and experience our world-class client service while we present you with our affordable car insurance products. These comprise comprehensive and customised car insurance with fixed premiums* and reducing excess*. Comprehensive or customised car insurance is available only for cars up to 15 years old, but our third-party PLUS car insurance has no age restriction. Ts and Cs apply.