How to save money on your car

In Victoria, transport costs, including car ownership, can account for around 10% of household spending. Fortunately, there are several simple ways to reduce the costs associated with driving. By being mindful of your driving habits, maintaining your car regularly, and making smart fuel choices, you can save money in the long run.

Here are some practical tips to help you cut down on your car-related expenses:

Save Money at the Bowser

Shop Around for the Best Fuel Price

Fuel prices can vary dramatically even within the same area, so it pays to research before filling up. Using apps like arevo, which offers a fuel finder function, allows you to receive personalised alerts for the cheapest fuel prices based on your location. This small effort can lead to big savings.

Use Fuel Discount Offers

Take advantage of petrol discounts offered by supermarkets or loyalty programs. For example, you can combine fuel discounts from Woolworths and EG Ampol to save more per litre.

Track the Fuel Pricing Cycle

Fuel prices often follow a cyclical pattern, rising and falling over several weeks. If prices are high, consider buying just enough fuel to get by until prices drop again. Staying aware of the fuel cycle can help you avoid paying peak prices.

Choose the Correct Fuel Type

Make sure to use the fuel grade recommended by your vehicle’s manufacturer. While it may be tempting to use cheaper 91 petrol, if your car requires 95 or 98, using the wrong type can lead to costly engine damage in the long run. Don’t use E10, but that is a separate blog.

Keep Your Car Well Maintained

Service Your Car Regularly

Regular servicing is key to avoiding bigger, more expensive repairs down the road. A well-maintained car runs more efficiently, using less fuel. If you notice an issue, such as a check engine light, don’t ignore it—getting it checked early could prevent further damage.

Maintain Proper Tyre Pressure

Underinflated tyres create more resistance on the road, which can increase fuel consumption. Keeping your tyres inflated to the recommended pressure can also prevent premature wear, extending the life of your tyres and saving you money in the long run.

Check Wheel Alignment

Misaligned wheels can cause uneven tyre wear, meaning you’ll have to replace your tyres more often. Regularly checking and adjusting your wheel alignment ensures your tyres last longer.

Lighten Your Load

Carrying unnecessary items in your vehicle adds weight, which increases fuel consumption. Clear out your boot and remove any roof racks when not in use to reduce drag and save on fuel.

Adopt Fuel-Efficient Driving Behaviours

Drive Smoothly

Aggressive driving, such as rapid acceleration and hard braking, burns more fuel. Maintain a steady speed and avoid harsh manoeuvres to maximise fuel efficiency. Driving at the legal speed limit also helps reduce wear on your tyres and brakes, saving money on maintenance.

Use Cruise Control

When driving on highways or long stretches of road, using cruise control can help maintain a consistent speed and save fuel. Adaptive cruise control can also improve efficiency by allowing your car to benefit from the slipstream created by the vehicle in front.

Be Mindful of Air Conditioning Use

Air conditioning puts extra strain on your engine, increasing fuel consumption. To minimise this, open your windows first to let hot air out before turning on the A/C. Also, ensure that your car’s cabin filters are clean to maximise the A/C system’s efficiency.

Avoid the Cost of Parking and Tolls

Park Smarter

Parking in city centres can be expensive. Consider parking further away and using public transport or walking the rest of the way. The arevo app can help you find convenient and affordable parking spots.

Avoid Toll Roads

While toll roads may save you time, they come with added costs. If you can, plan your route to avoid tolls by leaving earlier or driving outside of peak times.

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