Johannesburg - We wouldn't normally post fuel saving tips the day before a big price decrease, but the current fuel strike has thrown us all a curve ball and now we're reading about pumps running dry at some fuel stations and our basic feeling of fuel security is no more.
Besides cutting down on unnecessary trips, you will surely want to stretch your current tank as far as you possibly can, hypermiling as the Americans call it, which is why it pays to make sure you know some of the basic, common sense fuel-saving tips and tricks.
1 - Gentle on the gas and keep it smooth
Fast pull-offs from standstill will dramatically increase your consumption while a light right foot is your budget's best friend - no rocket science there. It also helps to keep the accelerator pedal in a constant position while cruising and lift your foot early for stops rather than braking as late as possible.
2 - Get the gearing right
Change up to the high gears as quickly as possible when accelerating, but avoid being in too high a gear for the situation. The trick is to get to know your engine and its sweet spots. Follow the gear-change indicator in your instrument cluster if your car has one. It's a bit harder if your car has an automatic gearbox but you can still learn to coax it to maximum efficiency.
3 - Not too fast, not too slow
Closely related to the previous point, it's worth noting that at 110km/h your car is using 15 percent more fuel than it would at 100km/h and 25 percent more than it would at 90km/h, but you also need to be realistic about the current driving conditions and not slowing traffic too much. And lower speed isn't always on your side as consumption dramatically increases below 50km/h.
4 - Pace yourself in traffic
As pulling away from a standstill uses way more fuel than gently rolling along, try to pace yourself in such a way that you use momentum to your advantage. Easing off the throttle when there's a red light ahead means it's more likely to turn green before you get there.
5 - Avoid riding the clutch
Use your handbrake for hill starts as riding that clutch will not only shorten its life but the corresponding accelerator movements will also cause your car to drink more.
6 - Aircon off
Unless you're on your way to a job interview or hot date, keep your air conditioner off as much as possible - which shouldn't be too hard at this time of year in any case.
7 - Windows up
You should also keep your windows up as the aerodynamic drag caused by open windows will also increase your car's fuel-consumption. While we're on that topic, roof racks and any other protruding objects that affect your car's ability to slice through the air should be removed immediately.
8 - Check the tyres
Keeping the tyres inflated at the correct pressure will optimise fuel economy. Even slightly deflated tyres will have an impact on fuel-consumption and if one of them is severely down it could prove downright dangerous, which is why you should check your pressures regularly.
9 - All the other basic maintenance
Proper engine maintenance through regular servicing will keep your engine at its most economical - even something as basic as changing a dirty air filter can save some fuel if you're still saving for that service. Ensuring the wheels are correctly aligned will also save you at the pump, while having the brakes checked is also a must as the engine will work much harder if they're binding.
10 - Keep it light
You don't need Colin Chapman to tell you that any excessive weight is a bad thing, so do a clean-out if necessary and make sure that you're not carrying any unnecessary heavy luggage.
Sources: Automobile Association, Virgin Money, Ken Corkett