Motorists across the UK are being issued with a crucial warning about the best times to refuel their vehicles, with specific advice to avoid petrol stations during peak hours. Experts are urging drivers to steer clear of filling up at either midday or 5pm to benefit from lower prices and shorter queues.
Optimal Refuelling Times Revealed
Gordon Wallis, a respected motoring expert from Your NRG, has highlighted the importance of timing when visiting fuel stations. He recommends that drivers should never fill up their tanks during midday or at 5pm, as these are typically the busiest periods when queues can form rapidly.
Wallis explains that late evenings or early mornings are the ideal times for refuelling, as fewer people purchase fuel during these hours, which often results in lower prices. This strategic approach can help motorists save money and avoid unnecessary delays.
Planning Ahead for Fuel Efficiency
In addition to timing, experts emphasise the importance of planning fuel stops in advance. The team at Money Saving Expert, led by BBC and ITV star Martin Lewis, advises motorists to refuel when they have approximately 50 miles of range left in their tank.
This approach eliminates panic and provides sufficient time to locate a more affordable filling station. Waiting until the last minute often forces drivers to use the next available station without considering price differences.
While a lighter vehicle does consume slightly less fuel, the difference with 50 miles of fuel remaining is minimal and does not significantly impact overall savings.
Understanding Premium Fuel Options
The advice extends to the type of fuel motorists choose. Many petrol stations offer high-performance fuels, but experts caution that these provide little or no benefit for most standard vehicles.
According to the AA, high-performance fuels are generally too expensive for regular use in non-performance cars. They recommend that drivers only use super-fuels if they own sports cars or have received specific advice that their vehicle can properly utilise these premium options.
For those interested in occasional use, the AA suggests using high-performance fuel every third or fourth tank to help maintain engine cleanliness and efficiency, then reverting to standard fuel for regular fill-ups.
Debunking Common Fuel Myths
Wallis also addresses common misconceptions about fuel purchasing. He clarifies that the belief about filling up at night providing significantly more fuel is largely an urban myth, with any difference being minuscule – amounting to mere pennies at best.
While fuel pumps are calibrated by volume, and cooler nighttime temperatures might theoretically provide a tiny advantage, the practical savings are negligible compared to the benefits of avoiding peak hours and choosing the right fuel type.
By following these expert recommendations, UK motorists can make more informed decisions about their refuelling habits, potentially saving money and time while maintaining their vehicles efficiently.
