Drivers should avoid one car lever as it ‘increases fuel consumption by 25%’

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Petrol and diesel drivers could increase their fuel consumption by a staggering 25 percent by pressing one car lever, according to experts.

Greg Wilson, spokesperson for Quotezone, admitted the driving style could have a major impact on the amount of petrol and diesel they use.

More fuel will be used as the revs get higher meaning keeping them down is vital to saving money.

Therefore, changing up to higher gears as quickly as possible can have a major impact on consumption.

Mr Wilson commented: “Switching into the highest possible gear keeps the revs low which saves petrol.

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“For example, at a 40 mph speed, the car will consume 25 percent more fuel in third gear compared to fifth. Under normal conditions, the gears should be changed when the revs are between 1,500-2,000 rpm.”

Paul Maynard, technical training manager at ATS Euromaster, also said motorists should always look at their revs if they want to save fuel.

He explained: “The way you drive affects your fuel consumption. The more you accelerate, the more fuel you use. Ideally, stay under 3,000 revs, as a rough rule.

“Always drive in the highest gear possible without labouring the engine and change the gear much earlier than feels natural. Try not to hit the brakes too rapidly, as this leads to more acceleration, thus using more fuel.”

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Meanwhile, experts at Vanarama added: “Every time you apply the brakes, the energy that you’ve paid for in fuel is lost in heat generated by the brake pads and discs.

“Don’t rev the engine unnecessarily when accelerating, just move gently through the gears, keeping the engine speed to a reasonable level, but without labouring it by being in too high a gear.”

It comes as motorists face soaring petrol and diesel prices as the cost of living crisis continues to bite.

Earlier this month, the RAC warned prices were “unjustifiably rising” with internal combustion vehicle owners most affected.

Petrol costs rose by almost 5p per litre in September to take the average total fill-up price to a whopping £86.

Diesel prices were also up with average costs rising by around 8p per litre.

However, drivers have been warned using the gear stick is not the only way it could have an impact on fuel use.

A spokesperson for Motorcycle Insurance added: “Resting your hand on the gear stick can put pressure on the transmission components, potentially causing premature wear and increasing repair costs over time.”

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