With fuel continuing to take a sizeable bite out of many household budgets, experts are encouraging South African motorists to spend just two minutes checking something they often overlook, saying it could help improve fuel efficiency and keep more money in their pockets.
Also see: Fuel prices surge: 10 most fuel-efficient SUVs in South Africa
How to help cut fuel costs
According to tyre manufacturers and motoring organisations, driving on underinflated tyres increases rolling resistance, forcing the engine to work harder and use more fuel. Keeping tyres inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure can improve fuel economy, with some estimates suggesting drivers could use up to 10% less fuel compared with driving on significantly underinflated tyres.
For someone spending around R3,000 a month on petrol or diesel, that could equate to savings of up to R300 a month, or as much as R3,600 over a year, depending on the vehicle, tyre condition and driving habits.
Russell Ferreira, trailer and towing expert at food trailer supplier Diamond Trailers, says that while tyre pressure is often associated with safety, it can also have a noticeable impact on fuel costs.
“When a tyre doesn’t have enough air in it, it creates more resistance against the road, so the engine has to work harder just to keep the vehicle moving, and that means it uses more fuel.
“The good news is that checking your tyre pressures takes a couple of minutes and can often be done free of charge at a filling station. The best time to check them is before you’ve driven anywhere or after the vehicle has been parked for several hours. Once the tyres have warmed up, the pressure reading changes, so you won’t get the most accurate result.”
Ferreira adds, “Don’t just give them a quick glance either. A tyre can be below the recommended pressure without looking obviously flat. Always use the pressure recommended by the vehicle manufacturer rather than the maximum figure printed on the tyre itself. You’ll usually find the correct pressures on a sticker inside the driver’s door, inside the fuel flap or in the owner’s handbook.”
Also see: Fuel levy hike likely in 2026 Budget despite cheaper petrol
Save every rand
Renier Botha, finance expert at payday loan company Southern Finance, says it’s exactly the sort of small habit that can make a difference when households are trying to keep everyday costs under control.
“If you’re spending around R3,000 a month on fuel, even improving your fuel efficiency by a small amount can soon add up over the course of a year. That’s money which could go towards groceries, school expenses, paying off debt or simply giving yourself a bit more breathing room each month.
“Correctly inflated tyres wear more evenly, can last longer and help your vehicle handle and brake as intended, so you’re not just saving money at the fuel pump,” noted Botha.
“If you’re already stopping to fill up with fuel, it’s worth taking another couple of minutes to check your tyre pressures while you’re there. Many filling stations offer free or low-cost air pumps, so it’s a simple habit that costs little or nothing but could save you money over the months ahead.”
While the exact savings will vary depending on the vehicle, tyre condition and driving style, regularly checking tyre pressures is one of the simplest ways motorists can help improve fuel efficiency without changing their daily routine.
Also see: South Africa’s most fuel-efficient cars to consider
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