Drivers looking to cut fuel costs in September can do so by removing bike racks, roof racks, and roof boxes from their vehicles. Motoring expert Dale Gillespie from Iron Offroad says these accessories add weight and aerodynamic drag, which can significantly impact fuel economy.
Why removing racks helps
Dale explained: "Camping equipment, bike racks, they all add up and impact your fuel." Accessories such as bike racks can push up fuel costs or reduce an electric vehicle's range due to the extra weight and drag they create. During months when they are not needed, it is worth taking them off altogether.
Empty roof racks also add weight, which Dale says can increase fuel consumption by 1% to 2.6%, working out at roughly £30 a year. If a roof box is left loaded up, a typical saloon will burn through around 10% to 12% more fuel per journey, rising to 20.8% on the motorway.
Tyre pressure and fuel economy
Temperature also affects tyre pressure, which in turn affects fuel consumption. Dale said: "Tyre pressure falls by around 1-2psi for every 10°C drop in temperature. So, as the weather cools, your pressure could start running low." Lower tyre pressure means more fuel burned.
With petrol and diesel prices higher than this time last year, every penny counts. It is predicted that more than half of tyres on UK roads are underinflated, and being just 6psi below the recommended pressure can add around 3% to a fuel bill.
Dale advised: "Look for a sticker inside the driver's door frame or on the inside of your fuel filler flap. That will tell you the ideal tyre pressure for your make and model. As well as impacting fuel, underinflation can reduce tyre life by around 10%."
Taking action in September with a few straightforward checks and adjustments could help keep more money in your pocket.
