Central Coast Fuel Prices

Here are 8 practical tips to help everyday drivers reduce fuel use and save money at the pump:

1. Drive Smoothly - Rapid acceleration and harsh braking burn more fuel. Gentle acceleration and anticipating traffic flow helps your vehicle run more efficiently
2. Avoid Excess Idling - If you’re stopped for more than a minute or two, turning the engine off can save fuel. Modern engines use very little fuel when restarting
3. Remove Unnecessary Weight - Carrying heavy items in the boot or on roof racks increases fuel consumption. Remove items you don’t regularly need
4. Use Cruise Control on Highways - Maintaining a steady speed reduces unnecessary acceleration and braking, which can improve fuel efficiency on longer drives
5. Keep Your Vehicle Serviced - A well-maintained engine runs more efficiently. Regular servicing, clean air filters, and correct engine oil all help reduce fuel use
6. Limit Air Conditioner Use When Possible - Air conditioning places extra load on the engine. On mild days, using the ventilation system instead can reduce fuel consumption
7. Compare Fuel Prices Before Filling Up - Fuel prices can vary significantly between stations. Checking prices ahead of time can help you find the cheapest option nearby and reduce overall fuel costs
8. Maintain the Right Tyre Pressure - Under-inflated tyres create more rolling resistance, which means the engine must work harder. Check tyre pressure monthly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level

Keeping tyres at the correct pressure can have a surprisingly noticeable impact on fuel use.

When tyres are under-inflated, they flatten slightly against the road. That increases rolling resistance, meaning the engine has to work harder to keep the car moving. Even a small drop in pressure can affect fuel efficiency. What this can mean in the real world?

Research from organisations such as the NRMA and U.S. Department of Energy shows that under-inflated tyres can increase fuel consumption by around 3–5%.

Here’s what that looks like for an average driver:

• Average car fuel use: 8 L / 100 km
• Driving distance: 15,000 km per year
• Annual fuel use: 1,200 litres

If tyres are under-inflated and fuel use rises by 4%, that means an extra 48 litres of fuel per year! If fuel costs $2.00 per litre, that equals about $96 per year in extra fuel, and that’s just from tyre pressure alone.

Why it’s worth checking regularly. Tyres naturally lose pressure over time, often 1–2 PSI per month; and temperature changes can also lower pressure. A quick check once a month (or when filling up with fuel) helps keep the vehicle running efficiently and reduces unnecessary fuel costs.

For many drivers, 30 seconds with a tyre gauge can save close to $100 a year when fuel prices are around $2 per litre.