How to Save Money on Fuel Without Buying a New Car-best auto zone

With petrol prices rising to an all-time high, many of us are noticing the considerably larger dent in our pockets. But there are ways to save money at the pumps without having to fork out for a new, more fuel efficient motor. Here's just a few:

Compare Petrol Prices

Petrol and diesel prices can vary by as much as 4p per litre between petrol stations, even within the same area of the country. It might not sound like much but it all adds up. You don't have to waste time and money searching out the cheapest though, websites such as petrolprices.com and iPhone apps such as Gas Buddy, allow you to find the cheapest petrol station in your area by simply entering your postcode. Try and work a trip to the cheapest station into your daily route, but don't go too far out of your way as you may find you are adding on the miles and burning more fuel. Supermarkets often have cheaper fuel prices than roadside stations so next time you top up your store cupboard top up your car at the same time.

Use Fuel Vouchers and Cards

Only a small percentage of people actually use supermarket fuel vouchers but they can save you more than you think. Most big fuel companies, such as Shell and BP, also have 'loyalty' cards. With Shell Driver's Club you can collect points each time you fill up and earn money off fuel vouchers and although BP Plus Fuel Card ® is designed for commercial customers, individuals can apply for one. You can also collect nectar points at BP stations.

Don't Drive With a Full Tank

Did you know that filling your tank just half way each time you visit the pump saves you money? Filling your tank to the top might save you visiting the petrol pump as often but will burn more fuel as a heavy tank adds extra weight.

Check Your Tyres Regularly

Checking your tyres regularly is important for safety but it could also save you money. An under-inflated tyre can cost as much as 5% more in fuel costs, per journey, so make sure your tyres are inflated correctly at all times.

Drive Slower

We always seem in a rush on the roads these days, but did you know that driving at 80mph, as well as being illegal, can use up to 25% more fuel than driving at 70mph. Although it depends on the car you drive the optimum speed is around 50-55mph.

Avoid Rush Hour

Maintaining a constant speed uses less fuel, so driving in rush hour, stop start traffic will burn fuel quickly. If possible avoid peak times on the road and routes that include lots of traffic lights!

Change Your Driving Style

Accelerating quickly when pulling away and braking sharply reduce mileage, so try to avoid this. Anticipating what is ahead will ensure you don't need to slam on the breaks or speed up suddenly. After years of driving you have probably got into bad habit but keeping gear changes smooth and changing gear as soon as possible puts less strain on the engine, using less fuel.

Drive Less

One way to really save on fuel is to drive your car less; car sharing is a great way to cut down on fuel consumption and save money. Even if driving your Chevrolet to Glasgow for work is unavoidable you could try ditching the car at weekend and walking to town rather than taking the car.

Amy Sawyer is an online marketing executive currently researching Chevrolet in Glasgow