Slash Fuel Consumption by Almost Half: The One Thing You Need to Remove

If you want to reduce your fuel consumption and save money at the petrol pump, you may want to consider removing one thing from your car in 2024: your roof rack. Whether you use it to carry bikes, ladders, or roof boxes, a roof rack can increase your vehicle’s drag and lower your fuel efficiency by up to 30 percent.

Here’s how to save fuel by taking off your roof rack and what to do if you need it for your work or leisure.

Why Roof Racks Affect Fuel Economy

Roof racks create extra wind resistance and make your car work harder to maintain speed. This means you use more fuel to push your car through the air. According to Consumer Reports, carrying two bikes on top of a sedan can reduce fuel mpg by around 28 percent. Even if the roof rack is empty, it can still lower your fuel economy by about 11 percent.

How to Save Fuel by Removing Your Roof Rack

The best way to save fuel by removing your roof rack is to do it as soon as possible and only put it back on when you need it. Experts at Vanarama suggest taking five or 10 minutes to remove your roof rack from your car as a simple New Year resolution. They say this could help you make “considerable” savings while at the petrol pump.

If you do need a roof rack for your work or leisure, you can still save fuel by keeping it clear of loads as much as possible. Specialists at Select Car Leasing advise that you should remove any racks or boxes that are not in use, as they can increase your vehicle’s drag and lower fuel efficiency by as much as 30 percent.

How to Save More Fuel in 2024

Removing your roof rack is not the only way to save fuel in 2024.

You can also improve your fuel economy by following these tips:

• Check your tyre pressures regularly and inflate them to the correct level as indicated in your owner’s manual. Under-inflated or over-inflated tyres can affect your fuel consumption by as much as 2.5 percent.
• Drive smoothly and avoid harsh acceleration and braking. Anticipate the road ahead and adjust your speed accordingly. Driving in the highest possible gear for your vehicle and keeping within the speed limit can also help you save fuel.
• Reduce the weight of your car by removing any unnecessary items from the boot or the cabin. The heavier your car, the more fuel it uses.
• Use air conditioning sparingly, as it can increase your fuel consumption by up to 10 percent. Open the windows instead, but only at low speeds, as open windows can also create drag at high speeds.
• Plan your journeys and avoid congested routes and peak times. Idling in traffic wastes fuel and emits more emissions. You can also consider alternative modes of transport, such as walking, cycling, or public transport, for short trips or when possible.
• Service your car regularly and use the right specification of engine oil. A well-maintained car performs better and uses less fuel than a poorly maintained one.

By following these tips, you can save fuel, money, and the environment in 2024. Remember, every drop of fuel counts, so make the most of it by removing your roof rack and driving economically.