In collaboration with Promutuel Insurance
According to the Government of Québec, in 2021, energy spending by individuals across the province totalled over $15 billion. And 55% of that was spent on fuel for personal vehicles. Sound like a lot? It’s actually 14% less than average spending on gasoline and other fuels in 2019.
Even so, motorists are spending more than ever to use their vehicles. And rising fuel prices are taking a real toll on their wallets! Statistics Canada figures for 2022 show that consumers paid 28.5% more for gasoline on an average annual basis—a significant dent in the budget for many households.
With figures like that, if you own a car and need to drive it every day, you’re probably looking for effective ways to save on gas. You’re on the right track! Read on for 15 helpful tips to help you cut your fuel expenses and preserve your peace of mind behind the wheel.
1. Maintain your vehicle
In addition to keeping you safe at the wheel and extending the life of your car, regular maintenance is a simple and efficient way to lower your fuel costs. So be sure to check oil levels frequently and follow your manufacturer’s recommended vehicle maintenance schedule.
2. Keep tires properly inflated
Did you know that underinflated tires can increase your car’s fuel consumption by 4%? That’s because underinflated tires have higher rolling resistance, so your engine has to work harder (and use more fuel) to compensate. Be sure to check your tire pressure regularly and keep your tires within the manufacturer-recommended range.
3. Drive light
The heavier your vehicle, the more fuel it will use. An extra 25 kg will increase your car’s fuel consumption by 1%. That’s why it’s a good idea to clear your passenger compartment of any unnecessary items and remove bike racks and other accessories that make your vehicle heavier and less aerodynamic.
4. Avoid idling
Did you know that 10 seconds of idling burns more fuel than starting your car? If you’re stopping for more than a minute, turn off your engine. This eco-driving technique will also help you reduce your environmental footprint.
5. Use AC sparingly
According to Natural Resources Canada, running your air conditioning while driving can increase fuel consumption by 20%. To reduce your gas bill, open the windows a bit when you’re in town or driving at low speeds.
6. Tighten your gas cap
Many motorists drive with a faulty or improperly closed gas cap, which allows fuel to evaporate. Remember to close the gas cap tightly after every fill-up. Inspect your gas cap regularly and replace it as needed.
7. Choose the right fuel
If your vehicle doesn’t require plus, super, or supreme fuel, it’s most likely an unnecessary expense. Check the manufacturer’s manual to see what type of fuel works best for your car.
8. Fill up strategically
Gas prices tend to go up on weekends. Try to gas up on weekdays and shop around for the gas station with the best prices.
9. Be a trip-planning pro
To avoid detours, multiple stops, and unnecessary back-and-forths, plan out your trips to drive the shortest distance possible. And whenever possible, avoid rush-hour driving.
10.Use a block heater
Over short distances of less than 20 km, a block heater can reduce your car’s fuel consumption by 15%. Plus, it’ll help get things nice and toasty inside that much faster!
11. Sign up for loyalty programs
Loyalty programs can save you money on gas by offering discounts. Shop around for the gas station with the best loyalty program for your needs.
12. Drive less
There’s no better way to save on gas than cutting back on how much you drive. Opt for public transit, cycling, or carpooling whenever possible. Not only will it save you money, it’ll give you more time to relax while you’re en route.
13. Do your homework when buying a vehicle
Fuel efficiency can vary significantly from one model to the next. So, shopping around for the right vehicle is a great way to save at the pump. To find the most fuel-efficient vehicle, use Natural Resources Canada’s Fuel Consumption Ratings Search Tool. And if you really want to save on gas, a hybrid or electric vehicle is definitely the way to go.
14. When in doubt, call a mechanic
Does it seem like your car is burning through more gas than usual? It could be due to a mechanical failure or a leak in the fuel tank. When in doubt, ask your trusted mechanic to inspect your car.
15. Adopt fuel-efficient driving techniques
According to Natural Resources Canada, adopting fuel-efficient driving can reduce your vehicle’s fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions by 25%. Here are five ways you can adapt your driving to save on gas and reduce your carbon footprint:
- Accelerate gently: Press down on the accelerator pedal slowly and gently. Give yourself 5 seconds to go from 0 to 20 km/h.
- Maintain a steady speed: Use cruise control for highway driving, when conditions permit.
- Anticipate traffic: Keep your eyes on the road to anticipate traffic and act accordingly to keep your speed as steady as possible.
- Avoid high speeds: At 120 km/h, your vehicle uses 20% more fuel than at 100 km/h. Follow the speed limit to save fuel—and avoid fines and accidents.
- Coast to decelerate: Every time you use your brakes, you lose forward momentum. Instead, simply take your foot off the gas (or downshift on a manual transmission) to slow down.
Save on gas… and your car insurance!
Adopting good driving habits will help you not only reduce your fuel consumption, but also limit all the costs associated with driving your vehicle, including your car insurance. Because careful drivers are less likely to get into an accident. That’s why Promutuel Insurance rewards good drivers with discounts on their car insurance premium if they have no claims. Find out more when it’s time to renew.
On that note, happy driving and happy savings!
