5 ways to save money as a driver
Navigation Icon Navigation Icon
  • icon Phone & Video Appointments
  • icon Click & Collect / Home Delivery
  • icon Reserve/ Buy Online
Menu
Go Back
  • 5 ways to save money as a driver
  • 09 June 2022
    Facebook Icon
    Twitter Icon
    Linkedin Icon

    5 ways to save money as a driver

    With the all-round rising costs of everything; and the cost of living emergency, it's important to understand how to spend your money more efficiently... so we've created a list of things you can do which can help you save.
1. Consider your fuel options

Fuel is most definitely one of the most expensive things about driving - so it would be sensible to make a starting point here. So what options do you have?

We would advise using supermarket fuel, as it is often cheaper. Some people may believe that fuel from supermarkets is of lower quality than branded fuels. However, this is a myth, as supermarket fuel conforms to the regulations and British standards as expected of any fuel provider. 

All engines will be compatible with supermarket fuels, so there's no need to worry about if it will be right for your car. Higher graded fuels may have better fuel efficiency, but the significance of this is usually outweighed by other factors such as price, driver behaviour, vehicle load, traffic and weather. 

Fuel stations that can be found at motorway service stops should also be avoided if possible, as they usually have a higher price for fuel. 

Premium fuel is not ideal for those who are wanting to save some extra money. Although fuel providers often suggest that it will give you better performance and economy advantages, unless you have a performance car, then these factors really won't effect your vehicle at all. 



2. Take the right insurance policy

Car insurance can cost a small fortune, especially when you're a new driver, which is why you should always be on the look out for a better deal. 

Don't just accept the re-newal quote that you are given, you can call your current insurer to haggle and see if you can get a better deal. You should also check your details on comparison sites, as you may find a much cheaper option. There are lots of factors that come into considerations that will influence the cost of your insurance, including where you live, your age, the car you drive and it's engine.

Adding a named driver to your car insurance could also decrease the cost of your policy, as the risk is balanced out, especially if it's an experienced driver with many years of no claims bonus. 

Always consider your annual mileage when buying your policy too, the less your drive, the lower your risk is of being in an accident, and therefore, your premium will be a lower price.

3. Your driving behaviour can be cost effective

Cars are at their least efficient when they cold, so if you drive quickly straight after start up there will be a lot of fuel wastage. To save money drive at a more gentle and steadier pace. 

Taking on extra courses to enhance your driving expertise can also be an effective way to save money in the long run. These courses may be able to teach you how to change your driving style so you can be a more economical driver. 'Hypermiling' is a style of driving that allows you drive more efficiently, and it is said that once you start, it is addictive. 

Also ensure that when driving you avoid pot holes at all costs as these can cause great damage to your vehicle. 


  • Wrap all of your ownership essentials into one monthly payment


4. Maintenance alternatives

There are many things you can do that are cheaper alternatives to parts that may need. For instance; economical tyres. You may think they don't make much of a difference, but they do. Don't just go for the cheapest tyres possible, although they may be tempting, they usually don't last the test of time. Not only do they not perform as well as more expensive tyres, but in the long run you will be paying out more to replace them. 

Always look at the EU tyre label - all tyres of them. With 'A' being the most efficient, where you will lose the least about of energy, and 'G' being the worst rating.

Which? discovered that higher quality tyres could improve your fuel economy by 2.5mpg.

You should also regularly check the pressure in your tyres as these can cause poor and less efficient performance. It may cost you 50p or £1 at a petrol station, or you could buy your own pump so you could do it at home. If your tyre is under inflated by 15psi, your car will be using up to 6% more fuel. 

Do not use your windscreen wipers when it is icey. The wipers will break or wear much more quickly if you use them when it is cold and icy. You can instead just scrap the screen or use a can of de-icer. 

You can also do some basic checks before your MOT, to ensure that your car does not fail. It's common that most cars will fail on a simple issue that will be a quick and easy fix, so save time and money and learn about which things need to be checked. 

We would suggest checking all of the bulbs in your car, your tyres and your windscreen. Another easy check to do is the fluids under the bonnet. It doesn't matter how simple these issues are, the garage will not fix them, and your car will fail its MOT. So, why risk the high cost for a cheap and easy fix?

  • Book in for a summer health check - ensure your car is in its best condition


5. Utilise your mobile phone

Don't just park up anywhere - get your phone out at check where the cheapest parking places are near you. There are specific apps you can download, such as Parkopedia, that can give you all of the information that you need. 

HOWEVER, make sure you are using a holder for your smartphone - as being caught with your phone in your hand whilst driving can get your a pretty hefty fine - £200 to be precise - and 6 points on your license. You should use the built in hands free system on your phone and in your car, as this will also help to avoid any fines.

If you are using your phone to pay for parking on apps - did you know that you can extend your stay? If time is running out, make sure your extend your parking time, otherwise you could end up with a fine. 

  • Rules to change on mobile usage whilst driving in 2022

  • Receive our latest news and offers:
    Don’t worry we won’t bombard you with emails and you can refine your preferences at any time.

  • SUBSCRIBE

  • Site and contents © Site built by The Whole Caboodle.

    West Way is a trading name for AWR Automotive UK Limited, a limited liability company registered in England and Wales under number 14219136 with its registered office at 41 Birmingham Road, Wolverhampton, WV2 3LQ.

    AWR Automotive UK Limited is an appointed representative of ITC Compliance Limited which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (their registration number is 313486). Permitted activities include advising on and arranging general insurance contracts and acting as a credit broker not a lender.

    VAT Registration Number 425 3415 19

    We can introduce you to a limited number of finance providers. We do not charge fees for our Consumer Credit services. We may receive a payment(s) or other benefits from finance providers should you decide to enter into an agreement with them, typically either a fixed fee or a fixed percentage of the amount you borrow. The payment we receive may vary between finance providers and product types. The payment received does not impact the finance rate offered. All finance applications are subject to status, terms and conditions apply, UK residents only, 18’s or over, Guarantees may be required.

    Click here to update your details and how you would like West Way to communicate with you.