Perth petrol: The five tips that can help you get the most from your full tank of fuel

As the war in the Middle East drags on, motorists in Australia are continuing to feel the petrol pinch.

Concerns about supply shortages and rising bowser prices have resulted in panic buying and petrol stations selling out.

While the Federal Government has taken steps to increase the national fuel supply, many motorists are still concerned about the added financial strain and how to stretch their fuel.

Experts have shared the top changes WA motorists can implement to get more out of their fuel tanks.

Choose the right fuel

The Royal Automotive Club of WA (RAC WA) suggests drivers only use the fuel recommended by their vehicle manufacturer, even if other types of petrol are less expensive at the pump.

RAC WA’s Manager of Vehicle and Fuels, Alex Forrest, said following the manufacturer directions would prevent motorists from having to fork out thousands for repairs down the line.

“Saving money by using a lower grade petrol than recommended for your car actually could do more damage in the long run,” he said.

Mr Forrest also spoke against the petrol stockpiling being seen across the nation, saying using older fuel from a jerry can will impact how a vehicle runs.

“Cars run most efficiently on fresh fuel, so stockpiling petrol to use later could turn out to be a false economy,” he said.

Fresh fuel straight from the bowser is the most recommended method of refuelling.

Change how you drive

One of the biggest changes drivers can make to maximise the litres in their fuel tank is to drive more carefully on the roads.

Mr Forrest revealed that the way motorists operate their vehicles can “have an impact on your fuel consumption”.

“One of the best habits to help you save fuel is making sure you accelerate gently and avoid heavy braking,” he shared.

Heavy braking and acceleration cause engines to work harder, resulting in increased fuel consumption.

Using cruise control on open roads is also highly recommended by automotive experts, with the driver-assistance system reported to save drivers five per cent in petrol use.

Lighten loads

Heavy loads can weigh down a vehicle and deplete your tank a lot quicker.

To ensure your full tank lasts, Mr Forrest advises motorists remove all unnecessary items from their boot and back seats.

He also encouraged drivers to “remove unneeded items from your car roof, such as roof racks and tents”.

Data from Monash University’s Accident Research Centre found removing roof racks from a vehicle can save up to 15 per cent in petrol use.

Stay on top of maintenance

Unaligned car wheels and under-inflated tyres can also put more strain on a vehicle and lead to more fuel wastage.

Mr Forrest says he recommends Sandgropers stay on top of their car maintenance and check their air pressure regularly.

“Low tyre pressure increases rolling resistance and uses more fuel,” he said.

Compare before fuelling up

Mr Forrest also stressed the importance of using maps such as FuelWatch to determine the best petrol station to top up at.

“For example, on Wednesday many BP fuel stations were up to 267.9c but 7-Eleven remained at 229.9,” he said.

Shopping around for the best price can save motorists up to 30c per litre.