Fuel Saving Driving Techniques in South Africa 2025

A Letter to Your Wallet in 2025

You’ve felt the squeeze. In August 2025, petrol dipped by 28 cents a litre while diesel climbed 64 cents, and the fuel levy remains steep at over R6 per litre. With politics and budgets dictating prices, your driving habits are one of the few things you can control.

What Actually Saves Fuel on South African Roads

Ease Onto the Pedal, Ease Off the Brake

Sudden acceleration and hard braking can spike fuel use by up to 40% in Joburg’s stop-and-start traffic. Anticipating traffic flow and coasting smoothly keeps consumption lower and driving calmer.

Stick to Reasonable Speeds

Most cars hit peak efficiency between 60 and 90 km/h, and fuel use rises steeply above 100 km/h. On highways, keeping a steady 100 to 110 km/h with cruise control is typically the most efficient way to save petrol.

Keep Tyres Properly Inflated

Underinflated tyres waste fuel. Properly inflated tyres improve fuel economy by about 0.6 percent on average and up to 3 percent. A quick monthly check, free at many petrol stations, pays off immediately.

Lighten the Load

Every extra 25 kg increases fuel use by roughly 1%. Roof racks and carriers create extra drag even when empty. Remove unnecessary items to keep your car lean and efficient.

Service Your Car Regularly

Dirty filters, worn spark plugs, or the wrong engine oil can cost you up to 2% in efficiency. A well-maintained car not only lasts longer but also uses less fuel.

Turn Off When Stopped

Idling for over 30 seconds wastes more fuel than restarting. Modern engines handle frequent starts without extra wear, so switch off when waiting safely.

Plan Trips Wisely

Cold starts consume more fuel. Group errands, avoid peak traffic, and use navigation apps with live traffic to find the most efficient routes.

Myths That Waste Fuel

• Coasting in neutral does not save fuel and can disable vital safety controls.

• Slipstreaming trucks is unsafe and barely effective.

• Morning fill-ups do not give you more fuel. Underground tanks keep petrol temperature stable.

Stick to proven methods that are both safe and effective.

Why This Matters in 2025

South Africans are paying some of the highest fuel prices in recent years, and the debate over taxes and levies has become a regular headline. While policy changes and global oil markets are beyond our control, how we drive is not. Adopting fuel-smart habits now means fewer shocks at the pump, more money left in your pocket, and a smaller environmental footprint with every trip.

Your Fuel Savings Checklist

• Drive smoothly, avoiding sudden acceleration or braking

• Maintain steady speeds and use cruise control where safe

• Check tyre pressure monthly

• Remove unnecessary weight

• Service your car regularly

• Turn off the engine when parked for more than 30 seconds

• Plan trips to reduce cold starts and avoid congestion

Also read: How to Save Money Each Month Without Even Trying: Joburg Life Hacks 2025

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter, TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com

Featured Image: CMH Citroen