Driving is an expensive business, but there are ways that you can trim the costs. And it won’t just save you money, either. You will keep yourself fitter, and do your bit for the environment. It’s a win – win situation, so what’s stopping you? Let’s take a look at how to cut down your driving costs.
Take Your Driving Test During The Week
Your first cost-saving exercise is to take your driving test during the week. It is slightly cheaper than weekend examinations. Once you and your instructor think you are ready, you will need to book your theory test online. Revise well for it because you will have to pay more for taking it again. When you have passed that, you have two years to pass your practical.
Cheaper Insurance
Whatever insurance policy you have, there is likely to be a cheaper one somewhere else. Car insurance companies love to entice new customers with amazing-sounding deals. But as soon as the introductory period ends, the costs will increase. Always shop around for a new deal when your cover period is about to end. Here are some tips on how to do it.
Switch off your engine
Approaching a long-stop traffic junction? A lot of new cars will turn their engines off automatically when you go into neutral. You can do the same in your older car with the keys if you know the lights will take a while to go green. It might only be a few minutes per stop, but over the year this can lead to significant fuel savings.
Drive in a higher gear
You should aim to drive your car to a maximum of 2,000 RPM to get the best fuel efficiency. Any more than that and your car will be working harder, and, therefore, need more gas. Any time you hear your engine screaming, change up a gear or ease off the accelerator if you want to save your petrol.
Drive smoothly
Every time you apply the brakes and push down on the accelerator, you are going to use more petrol. Although it can be unavoidable when you are driving around cities, if you use your common sense you will be able to save these fuel costs. Look ahead, and if you see a red light just ease off the gas and make a slow approach. You would be surprised at how much more efficient this will make your car!
Windows or air con?
Most people think that opening the windows is a more efficient way of cooling down when you are driving. It is, actually, but only until you increase your speed. When you start to go over 60mph, the drag effect means that your engine has to work harder. Once you get to around that speed, it is more efficient to turn on your air con!
Tyre pressure
When was the last time you checked the pressure in your tyres? Lots of people forget, but it is something you need to do regularly if you want to increase your efficiency. Check your owner’s manual for optimum pressure, and check the tyres every couple of weeks. This will also help you find out if you have a slow puncture and need to buy new tyres.
I hope this has been enlightening for you. Happy saving!