You’ve been driving all wrong – easy tricks to save at least 3p a litre on fuel

MILLIONS have drivers have noticed the cost of a filling their car rocket in recent weeks as petrol prices soar.

But some common driving mistakes could also be adding more onto your fuel bill.

It comes as figures reveal that, at 186p a litre, the UK has a higher average petrol price than most European Union countries.

This is despite a drop in wholesale costs, which started to ease off around seven weeks ago.

Drivers in France, for example, pay around 23p per litre less than those in the UK.

But no matter how great a driver you think you are - making a few tweaks to your driving style could save you some serious dosh.

Every mile-per-gallon added to your car's fuel efficiency is the equivalent to a 3p-a-litre saving at the pump, so the more tricks you try, the more you could save.

Luke Bodset, the AA's fuel price expert, has shared five ways drivers can save money at the pump.

Monitor your driving

The way you drive can have a big impact on the amount of fuel your car is using - and driving smoothly can mean you waste less fuel.

While this may sound idealistic, it's as easy as pulling off slowly from stationary and avoiding braking harshly when the car comes to a stop.

Late braking puts strain on the braking system, wearing out the pads and discs faster (meaning you could have to fork out for replacements) and uses up more fuel in the process.

Being gentle with the steering and accelerator when you pull away will also help you to conserve fuel.

Stick to the speed limit

Sticking to the speed limit is not only a legal must-do - it'll save you cash too.

The faster your vehicle goes, the more fuel you use - driving 80mph on the motorway, for example, uses 25% more fuel than going at 70mph.

Excessive speed is a big gas-guzzler and will mean you'll have to fill up at the forecourt more often.

This could have a big impact on the amount of times you're having to refuel.

Avoid premium fuel

Many drivers automatically opt for premium unleaded over the standard fuel without thinking about whether it's necessary, Tom said.

Premium fuels have a higher octane rating than other fuels sold at the pumps.

But unless you've got a specific high-performance car, you probably don't need it.

In most cases, opting for premium fuel doesn't have any additional benefits and can cost up to 15p a litre more than average.

Your car handbook should provide you with the details of the recommended octane rating for your engine.

Switch off your air con

There is no doubt it's tempting to whack on the car's air con in the hot summer months.

But ramping up the air con can increase fuel consumption by a whopping 10%, eating into the amount of fuel in the vehicle's tank.

Instead, put your windows down when you first get in your car to let the heat escape - and only use the air con when the engine is working harder when driving.

Check your tyre pressure

Although it may never have crossed your mind, your vehicle's tyres will have an impact on the amount of fuel you use.

If your tyres are inflated correctly, the vehicle will experience more rolling resistance, which will mean the engine has to work harder to compensate.

Your ideal tyre pressure depends on your car and tyre.

Most cars have a sticker on their bodywork in the driver's door that tells you the correct pressure.

If you can't find it, check the owner's handbook.

Where can I find the cheapest fuel prices?

It's always worth a look at comparing prices, and heading to the cheapest competitor to make a saving.

The only problem when it comes to fuel, is that you need enough of it in the first place to travel further afield for the best costs.

It just adds to the pressure households are already facing from rising energy bills and the increased cost of living that is also pushing up the price of food and travel.

Small local forecourts are currently giving drivers a better deal than the big boys.

The Sun recently spoke to the boss of Texaco garage in Greater Manchester who was selling unleaded petrol at 159.9p a litre.