With the rising cost of petrol in Nigeria, driving your car every day is starting to feel like a luxury. But while you can’t control fuel prices, you can control how quickly your car burns through it. Making a few simple changes to how you drive and maintain your car can help you save thousands of naira monthly.

Here are 5 smart and practical tips that will help you get more kilometers per litre without changing your car.

1. Drive Smoothly 

Heavy-footed driving burns more fuel. When you speed off at traffic lights or brake hard, your engine works overtime, using up more petrol than necessary.

 Pro Tip: Accelerate gradually and maintain a steady speed, especially in traffic or on the highway. Your fuel tank will thank you.

2. Keep Your Tyres Properly Inflated

Under-inflated tyres create more drag, forcing your car to work harder and consume more petrol. Properly pumped tyres improve fuel efficiency and extend tyre life.

 Pro Tip: Check your tyre pressure at least twice a month, especially during extreme weather changes. Use the recommended PSI found in your car manual or driver’s door.

3. Service Your Car Regularly

Dirty air filters, old engine oil, and clogged spark plugs reduce your engine’s efficiency. A well-serviced car runs smoother and uses fuel more efficiently.

 Pro Tip: Stick to your car’s service schedule, and don’t skip oil changes or filter replacements. A healthy engine is a fuel-saving engine.

4. Lighten Your Load

The heavier your car, the more fuel it consumes. Carrying around unnecessary weight like tools, boxes, or unused items in your boot means more trips to the fuel station.

 Pro Tip: Clean out your trunk and remove roof racks or carriers when not in use. Every kilogram counts.

5. Limit AC Use & Electrical Drains

Air conditioning can increase fuel consumption, especially in older vehicles. Also, using high-powered sound systems or charging multiple devices adds to the engine’s load.

 Pro Tip: Use AC wisely, roll down your windows at low speeds, and turn off electronics when not needed.

Fuel is expensive but smarter driving doesn’t cost a thing. By adjusting your habits and paying attention to maintenance, you’ll be surprised how much farther a full tank can take you.