How to reduce your gas consumption and fuel expenses?
Every trip to the gas station takes a toll on your budget? With fuel prices constantly rising and the environmental impact to consider, everyone benefits from cutting down on gas consumption. Here are some practical tips to help you save money and do your part for the planet at the same time.
Choosing a fuel-efficient vehicle
Planning to buy a new or used car? When comparing the different models within your reach, check each one’s fuel efficiency. It can vary significantly between models and categories.
Sport utility vehicles (SUVs) have plenty of upsides, but their higher acquisition costs and increased fuel consumption may put a damper on your drive. To save on fuel, choosing a compact, hybrid or electric vehicle remains the ultimate solution.
GOOD TO KNOW
A difference of just 1L/100km can translate into several hundred dollars more in your pocket every year! For example, covering 15,000km a year when the average cost of fuel is 150¢/litre results in savings of $225!
Tools to assess a vehicle’s fuel consumption
A few free tools to make sure you pick a model with low fuel consumption:
Each year, the Fuel Consumption Guide published by Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) ranks the most fuel-efficient vehicles by category. It’s a great starting point when it comes to shopping for your next car!
CAA-Quebec members also have free access to the Mobility Advisory Services for unbiased information about models on the market, including the many different electric vehicles available.
Assessing your needs to choose your vehicle
Before you leave the dealership at the wheel of an SUV, it might be wise to assess your real needs. For your daily commute, are there alternative means of transportation you can use, such as electric bikes, carsharing, or public transit? If you’re considering buying a larger-capacity vehicle for your vacation or renovation projects, have you thought about renting a vehicle adapted to your particular needs?
The Équiterre organization encourages motorists to reflect on the impact and costs associated with SUVs. More expensive to buy than a regular car, more costly to run and maintain, more dangerous for vulnerable road users, more polluting: large vehicles don’t just have advantages!
Tools for comparing vehicle models
Several tools are available to help you select the vehicle best suited to your needs:
Équiterre’s platform lets you measure the score of two models by comparing their dangerousness on the road, their cost as well as their environmental impact.
This page lists all electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles marketed in Quebec that are eligible for at least one government subsidy. The tool includes detailed information on range, charging, energy savings, and towing capacity.
This CAA tool assesses the costs involved in owning a vehicle based on its make and model. It compares hybrid, electric, and gas-powered vehicles.
Find out the objective opinions of CAA-Quebec’s mobility experts on vehicles tested under real conditions to help you make the right choice.
Maintaining your vehicle properly to reduce fuel consumption
While it may seem like an expense to maintain your car on the fly, it’s actually a great way to achieve savings in the long term. According to tests carried out by CAA-Quebec, vehicles that are not properly maintained can consume up to 25% more fuel than those in good mechanical condition.
It’s important to carry out scheduled maintenance at your dealership, at a garage or at CAA-Quebec Approved Auto Repair Services. Keeping your vehicle in good condition not only pays off at the pump, but also when you’re ready to part with it, since diligent maintenance will increase the resale value of your investment.
Car maintenance and fuel economy: Your checklist
Tire pressure: Verify tire pressure regularly to limit resistance on the road.
Oil change and filters: Ensure that the engine and filters are properly maintained for efficient operation.
General: Follow the maintenance schedule provided by the manufacturer. This can be found in your vehicle owner’s manual.
Do you have further questions about car maintenance? Check out some of the answers to our members’ most frequently asked questions.
Adopting ecodriving to reduce fuel consumption
Ever heard of ecodriving? By observing the right habits while driving, you can reduce your fuel consumption. And there are plenty of other benefits to fuel-efficient driving: lower pollutant emissions, lower vehicle maintenance costs, improved road safety, reduced stress for the driver, and so on.
Some guidelines for ecodriving
Anticipate traffic movements
Sudden braking and hard acceleration consume more fuel (in addition to being unsafe). Drive carefully with your eyes far ahead to anticipate any changes in traffic flow.
Keep your speed constant
By keeping your vehicle at cruising speed, you optimize your fuel consumption. You also contribute to smoother traffic flow, lower pollutant emissions, and a safer driving environment. If both the weather and the roads are clear, use your cruise control on the highway.
Turn off the engine during long stops
Whenever the vehicle is immobilized for longer than 60 seconds, turn off the engine, unless you are in traffic. Did you know? Many newer vehicles are equipped with technology that automatically switches off the engine when the vehicle is at a standstill.
Use air conditioning in moderation
Air conditioning can increase fuel consumption, especially at low speeds. In town, lower the windows in order to cool the inside.
Close windows at cruising speed
However, on the highway, lowered windows and an open sunroof increase the vehicle’s drag. To improve fuel efficiency, it’s best not to impair the vehicle’s aerodynamics.
Travel light
The heavier the vehicle, the thirstier it gets! Every extra 25kg corresponds to a 1% increase in fuel consumption. Lighten the weight of your vehicle by removing equipment such as bike racks and roof cases when you’re not using them. The same goes for your cargo: don’t drive unnecessarily with bags of earth, sand, salt, or any other heavy object.
Choosing the right fuel for your vehicle
Should you choose regular or premium gasoline? We strongly advise you to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when it comes to deciding on the type of fuel for your car. This information can be found in the owner’s manual for your vehicle. If you opt for premium fuel, but your vehicle doesn’t need it, it’s most likely an unnecessary expense.
Practical tips for saving at the pump
Fill your tank at the right price
The price of gas tends to go up on weekends or as a vacation draws near. Anticipate these rises by filling up during the week and monitoring the prices posted at the various service stations in your area. You can also refer to CAA-Quebec’s Gasoline Watch tool at all times to make sure you pay the right price for gas at the best time.
Take advantage of loyalty programs
Loyalty programs can save you lots of money. At most service stations, you can take part in one of these programs. For example, CAA-Quebec members enjoy a 3¢/L discount at participating Shell service stations. Compare the programs and discounts available to find out which is most advantageous for you.
Read our advice for more tips on achieving fuel savings.