Save money on petrol by filling up your car at these two times, expert claims

An expert has claimed that people could save money on filling up their cars by travelling to the petrol station at two specific times of day.

However the individual, a fuel expert, said the reason drivers might be able to save money is not for the reasons they might think.

Your NRG’s Gordon Wallis told ReachPlc there’s a common myth suggesting that fueling up early in the morning or late at night would save drivers money, as fuel would be denser because the air is cooler.

In fact, Mr Wallis said drivers could still save money at these times. However, it’s got nothing to do with air temperature or fuel density, but for another reason entirely.

He explained: “A common misconception is that filling up your car late in the evening when temperatures are cooler can save money because fuel is denser.

“While small changes in fuel volume due to temperature can affect fuel efficiency, the difference is usually very small and can only save pennies per fill-up, though it can add up over time for careful drivers.

“It’s a good idea to fill up your gas tank during late evenings or early mornings because fewer people buy fuel, so the prices are lower.

“Drivers should try to avoid filling up during midday or after 5 pm when most people are done with work as queues can quickly form.”

As a result, whilst filling up when the weather is cooler could save money, the amount saved through denser fuel was negligible at best. What’s more, Mr Wallis added that fuel efficiency may not be dramatically adversely affected by having a full tank rather than half-full tank.

He said: “Filling your car’s tank completely does add weight, but it’s a small amount – typically less than five percent of the car’s total weight, so the difference in fuel efficiency between a full and half-full tank is likely to be minimal and you might not see much change at the gas station.”

Mr Wallis isn’t the only commentator to provide guidance on what drivers can do to improve their fuel efficiency.

Speaking to the Express earlier this year, specialists from the CarShop said fuel efficiency could be preserved over time if the car was regularly serviced.

They said: “Regular maintenance and servicing can be expensive and is a cost some may struggle to justify, it can however have more benefits than just safety. Good vehicle maintenance can improve a vehicle’s fuel efficiency and consumption.

“Research shows that savings of up to 10 percent can be made by replacing a blocked air filter, worn spark plugs or old engine oil and will also help to retain its value when you come to sell.”