That’s why we believe in empowering every driver with practical knowledge on how to improve fuel efficiency so you can drive further, spend less, and reduce your environmental footprint.
If you’d like personalised advice for your car, feel free to call us on 020 8460 6666 or email us at .
Our professionals at Bromley Vehicle Test Centre help you get the most from every drop, saving you fuel, money, and hassle.
Why Fuel Efficiency Matters
Fuel efficiency isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about reducing stress, lowering emissions, and prolonging your vehicle’s life. Improving your car’s miles per gallon (MPG) has practical benefits: fewer visits to the pump, smoother driving, and less wear and tear. As a family-run garage with decades of experience, we’ve seen firsthand how simple changes can make a big difference.
How To Improve Fuel Efficiency: Key Tips
Here are proven ways you can improve fuel efficiency, tested and recommended by real mechanics at our Bromley garage.
1. Keep Your Tyres Properly Inflated
Underinflated tyres increase rolling resistance, meaning your engine works harder and burns more fuel. We check tyre pressure during both MOTs and servicing bookings with us to ensure yours are optimised.
2. Maintain Regular Servicing
A well-maintained engine runs more smoothly and efficiently. At our centre, we offer regular servicing for all makes. We’ll keep your filters clean, fluids topped, and engine tuned, all of which support better fuel economy.
3. Mind Your Driving Style
Aggressive acceleration, heavy braking, and high-speed driving drastically reduce fuel efficiency. Try to drive smoothly, use cruise control on motorways, and anticipate traffic. Over time, this can noticeably improve MPG.
4. Use The Right Fuel
Using a lower-octane fuel than recommended can reduce engine efficiency, while overpaying for premium fuel doesn’t always yield better performance. Always use the grade specified in your car’s handbook.
5. Lighten The Load
Extra weight, whether it’s a full boot, roof rack, or unnecessary items, makes your car heavier and less efficient. Clear out unneeded luggage, and remove roof racks when not in use.
6. Minimise Idling
Letting your engine idle burns fuel for no distance covered. Turn off your engine if you’re stationary for long periods at our Bromley garage. We encourage people to do this, especially when waiting in the forecourt.
7. Regular Diagnostics
Modern vehicles rely heavily on electronics. Faulty sensors, such as oxygen or MAF, can lead to a rich fuel mixture and wasted petrol. We use advanced diagnostic testing in our workshop to pinpoint such inefficiencies.
Additional Smart Practices
Here are a few more refined habits that can add up:
- Plan your trips: Combine short errands into one journey. A warm engine is more efficient than a cold one.
- Avoid unnecessary air-conditioning use: Use AC sparingly; on the motorway, open windows can be more efficient than blasting AC.
- Use engine braking: letting the car coast in gear, when safe and legal, reduces reliance on the physical brakes and saves fuel.
- Consider light maintenance jobs like alignment: Misaligned wheels increase drag; at our Bromley centre, we check alignment during servicing.
Why Choosing Us Can Help You Improve Efficiency
At Bromley Vehicle Test Centre, our approach is built on integrity, transparency, and honesty. We don’t just fix cars, we help you run them smarter. When you bring your car for an MOT or service, we:
- Perform a pre-MOT check to catch inefficiencies such as low tyre pressure or emissions issues.
- Explain clearly and honestly what needs doing, why, and how much it costs, no jargon or hidden fees.
- Use our diagnostic tools to detect problems that cost you fuel, not just safety.
This combination of expertise and trust means you’re not just saving fuel, you’re investing in your car’s long-term health.
When To Get Help From Us
If you’ve tried these tips and still feel your fuel economy is off, it may be time to bring your car in:
- If your MPG has dropped noticeably
- If there are warning lights (e.g., “check engine”)
- If you haven’t had a service in a while
- If your tyres seem under- or over-inflated
Book an appointment using our booking form in just a couple of minutes. Alternatively, call us on 020 8460 6666 or email . We’ll be happy to help.
Conclusion
Improving your car’s fuel efficiency doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. With a few changes from maintaining your tyres and servicing regularly to driving more thoughtfully, you can drive further and spend less. At Bromley Vehicle Test Centre, we’re dedicated to giving you honest, expert support every step of the way.
Need help optimising your car? Book a service or MOT online, or call us today on 020 8460 6666 / . Let’s get you saving fuel and money together.
FAQs
Q1: Will upgrading to lightweight alloy wheels help fuel efficiency?
Yes, lighter wheels reduce unsprung weight and friction, which can slightly improve MPG, especially in stop-start driving.
Q2: How often should I service my car to maintain good fuel efficiency?
We generally recommend a full service every 12,000 miles or annually, depending on your driving. This ensures filters and fluids are optimal.
Q3: Does engine size affect fuel efficiency significantly?
Yes, larger or more powerful engines typically consume more fuel. But efficient driving style and maintenance help mitigate this.
Q4: Can I do anything myself at home to save fuel?
Absolutely, check your tyre pressures weekly, remove excess load, and avoid long idling to make a big difference.
Q5: Is using petrol additives worth it?
Most modern cars don’t need fuel additives if well maintained, but poor fuel quality or specific sensor issues may benefit from a professional check.