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How to Save Fuel

With fuel prices this high, small changes to how you drive make a real difference to your monthly bill.

Updated 26 September 2026 · Tracker Prices South Africa

Quick answer: The biggest savings come from driving smoothly, keeping to the speed limit, cutting idling and keeping tyres at the right pressure.

Driving habits

  1. Accelerate gently and anticipate stops.
  2. Keep to the speed limit; fuel use rises sharply at high speed.
  3. Change up early in a manual car.
  4. Use cruise control on the open road.
  5. Do not idle for long: switch off if you will be parked for more than a minute or two.

Vehicle care

  1. Check tyre pressure monthly.
  2. Service your car on time.
  3. Remove roof racks and unnecessary weight.
  4. Use the grade of fuel your manual specifies.

Planning

  1. Combine errands into one trip.
  2. Avoid peak traffic where you can.
  3. Use navigation apps to avoid congestion.
  4. Fill up before the monthly increase when a hike is expected. See current fuel prices.
  5. Use air-con sensibly: at high speed it is usually better than open windows.
  6. Track your consumption; many trackers report it. See fuel management.
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FAQ

Common Questions

Does idling waste a lot of fuel?+

Yes. An idling engine burns fuel for no distance. Switch off if you will be stopped for more than a minute or two, where it is safe to do so.

Does air-con use more fuel?+

Yes, but at highway speeds open windows add drag, so air-con is often similar or better.

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