Importance Score: 45 / 100 🔵
Fuel Saving Tip for Motorists: Reverse Parking to Reduce Petrol and Diesel Expenses
Drivers are being advised to adopt a simple fuel-saving technique this year: reverse into parking bays to potentially reduce petrol and diesel expenses. Experts suggest that reverse parking, especially when utilizing a warm engine, can be more economical. This lesser-known method could offer significant savings for motorists looking to manage fuel costs.
The Benefits of Reversing into Parking Spaces
Motoring specialists at ReduceMyExcess have emphasized that reversing out of a parking space consumes more fuel compared to reversing into it. They advise drivers to practice this technique to maximize potential savings. While this tip was initially highlighted last year, it remains relevant in 2025 as a practical method to conserve fuel.
ReduceMyExcess elaborated on the advice, stating:
“When entering a car park, take the extra moment to reverse into the parking space instead of driving in forwards. Reversing out of a space requires more fuel, and this action is more efficient when performed with a warm engine.”
Warm Engine Efficiency
The motoring organization further explained the rationale behind this fuel-saving tip:
“In essence, if you are not comfortable with reverse parking but wish to decrease your fuel expenditure, now is an opportune time to practice so that reversing in becomes a standard routine.”
Fuel experts at Esso have also previously supported the recommendation to reverse park whenever feasible, reinforcing the potential benefits for drivers.
Minimize Fuel Consumption During Cold Starts
Esso experts explained the advantages of reverse parking:
“Always attempt to reverse into a parking spot to enable driving straight out. Manoeuvring when the engine is cold consumes a greater amount of fuel.”
According to RAC Fuel Watch data, the average UK price for unleaded petrol is currently 135.54p per litre, while diesel costs 142.2p per litre. Despite these figures, breakdown analysts predict that fuel prices are anticipated to decrease in the near future.
Engine Temperature and Fuel Efficiency
Experts at FleetGo highlighted the impact of engine temperature on fuel consumption. A cold engine significantly affects fuel efficiency.
FleetGo stated:
“A cold engine uses more fuel than a warm engine and also experiences faster wear. Drive gently when the engine is cold, and attempt to reduce engine speed until it reaches a warmer temperature.”
Park Strategically for Fuel Savings
FleetGo further advised drivers to consider parking direction to minimize fuel use:
“Park your vehicle in the direction of travel. Choose a parking position that allows you to drive away directly when you next set off. As mentioned earlier, a cold engine consumes more fuel, so reversing out of a parking space will result in burning unnecessary additional fuel.”