Four common petrol-saving myths DEBUNKED

In these trying times, petrol prices have surged to eye-watering levels.

Indeed, in South Africa, where petrol prices are already breaking the R30-a-litre mark, it wouldn’t be surprising to see motorists getting misty-eyed at garages as they empty their wallets for full – yet forever-hungry – fuel tanks.

As a result, you might be looking for solutions that will help you save on both petrol and cash. However, there are some tactics out there that actually cost you more than you can save.

FOUR PETROL MYTHS THAT CAN KICK THE GAS CAN

If you’re looking to cut petrol costs, be wary of perpetuating these four common myths:

1. IDLING

Idling is detrimental when it comes to fuel efficiency. Image: Pexels

Many folks believe that switching on the ignition and letting the car idle for several minutes before driving off to their destination saves petrol. In reality, though, idling will only lead you to wasting more petrol and producing more carbon monoxide.

Thankfully, today’s car models are fitted with advanced fuel injection systems, which don’t need time to warm up whatsoever.

2. MORNING FILL-UP

Why do so many folks fill up in the morning? Well, it’s believed that by doing so, it allows them to take advantage of cooler temperatures, which supposedly keeps the petrol from expanding. This means paying a cheaper rate rather than filling up later in the day.

Not the case, says Cartrack: “Petrol stations store their fuel underground, where the temperature remains relatively stable, and as soon as the petrol hits your tank, the liquid quickly reaches the ambient temperature, no matter the time of day.”

3. COASTING

When it comes to coasting in neutral gear, it’s all downhill from here for fuel consumption. Image: Pexels

According to this popular myth, you save fuel by coasting downhill either in neutral gear or with your engine turned off.

Thankfully, today’s car engines are designed to automatically cut fuel while decelerating. In fact, it’s best to ride in gear while you do so – otherwise, it can be detrimental to your vehicle’s safety systems.

4. OVER-INFLATED TYRES

The story goes that by keeping your tyres over-inflated, you can reduce your petrol consumption by a significant margin.

The exact opposite happens, says Frontier Tyres. By over-inflating your tyres, it can reduce grip and wear unevenly, leading to decreased control, decreased comfort and more petrol being burnt. It’s important to inflate your tyres to the correct tyre pressure, which allows for improved fuel efficiency.

BE PETROL SMART

Desperate times call for desperate measures, as the saying goes. As such, myths like these that promise huge, monthly petrol-cum-money savings definitely fall into the category of “desperate measures.”

Don’t fret, folks. Fortunately, there are genuine methods out there that not only increase fuel efficiency, but also save you money at the pump – and lessen your headache!

If you know of any tried-and-true petrol-saving hacks, share them in the comments below.