Tank Alert

Tips and Tricks to Save on Fuel

Driving Habits

  • Drive smoothly to reduce sudden acceleration or braking, saving up to 10% in fuel annually.
  • Maintain moderate speeds (e.g., 100 km/h instead of 120 km/h) for better fuel efficiency.
  • Use cruise control on highways to maintain a constant speed and reduce fuel usage.
  • Turn off the engine during long idle periods, such as waiting at traffic lights.

Vehicle Maintenance

  • Regularly check tire pressure to minimize rolling resistance and improve efficiency.
  • Lighten your vehicle by removing unnecessary weight, such as roof racks or heavy cargo.
  • Activate start-stop technology if available to avoid wasting fuel during stops.

Refueling Hacks

  • Refuel early in the morning when temperatures are cooler, as fuel is denser.
  • Avoid overfilling the tank to prevent evaporation losses.
  • Fill up before your tank is half empty to reduce air exposure and evaporation.
  • Refuel during off-peak hours (e.g., 6–7 PM or 8–10 PM) to take advantage of lower prices, avoiding peak times like 6–9 AM or 4–6 PM, which can save up to €6 per tank.
  • Refuel on cheaper days like Tuesdays and Wednesdays instead of weekends or public holidays.
  • Track Fuel Prices with Tankalert.de: Use Tankalert.de to monitor fuel prices in your area and set alerts for when prices drop, ensuring you always refuel at the best price.

Lifestyle Changes

  • Plan efficient routes to combine errands into one trip, maximizing engine efficiency.
  • Carpool or use public transport to share costs and reduce environmental impact.
  • Consider switching to smaller, fuel-efficient cars or hybrids for long-term savings.

Financial Strategies

  • Use gas rewards credit cards for discounts or cashback on fuel purchases.
  • Join supermarket or gas station rewards programs for discounts at participating stations.
  • Use loyalty programs such as: Aral: Payback points, Esso: Deutschland-Card, Shell: Club Smart Card
  • Consider membership clubs like Costco or Sam's Club for lower gas prices.

Environmental Considerations

  • Choose renewable fuels where available, such as biodiesel made from used cooking oil.
  • Reduce air conditioning use, as it increases engine strain and fuel consumption.
  • Keep your vehicle clean—mud and dirt increase aerodynamic drag, reducing efficiency.