Experts advise reversing into spaces, rather than going in headfirst.
Reversing into a parking space is more cost effective than pulling in forwards(Image: Getty )
If you always pull straight into a parking space at the supermarket or in public car parks, you’re not alone. Many motorists will drive forwards into the spot as it offer an unobstructed view of the space as you approach.
And it can also offer you easier positioning in the bay too. But drivers have been told that they should stop driving forward into spaces as they are wasting fuel.
This is because having to reverse out of the space when you leave is said to use up more fuel.
Motoring experts at ReduceMyExcess have offered the little-known tip to help car owners save money at a time when costs are at an all time high, with rises in Vehicle Excise Duty that came in at the start of this month.
And they said that if it’s something you are not used to doing, then now is the time to start as this tip will help to save a bit of money at a time when every penny counts, reports Birmingham Live.
ReduceMyExcess said: “If you’re heading out to a car park, take the time to reverse into the space instead of simply cruising in with front bay parking.
“That’s because reversing out of a space will use up more fuel, and it’s better to do this manoeuvre with a warm engine.
“In other words, if you’re not confident with reverse parking but want to save on your fuel bill, now might be the time to get a little practice in so that reversing in becomes a habit.”
They added: “Always try to reverse into a parking space so you can drive straight out. This is because manoeuvring while the engine is cold uses more fuel.”
Reversing your car into a space can save you money on fuel (Image: 2022 Getty Images)
Other experts agreed that it was a savvy cost-saving idea. FleetGo said: “A cold engine consumes more fuel than a warm engine, and it wears much faster.
“So go easy when the engine is cold, and try to reduce the engine speed until the engine is warm. Park your car in the direction of travel. Park your car in such a way that the next time you set off, you can simply drive away.
“As described earlier, a cold engine consumes more fuel, so if you need to reverse out of your parking spot, you will burn extra fuel.”
From April, the standard road tax for cars registered after 2017 rose by £5 to £195 per year, adding at least 42p per month to most drivers’ expenses.
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Additionally, electric vehicles (EVs) will no longer be exempt from car tax, incurring a £10 fee for the first year, followed by the standard £195 charge.
EVs priced over £40,000 will also be subject to a £420 annual surcharge for the first five years.
Unfortunately, these charges are unavoidable. If you’re in the market for a new car, factor these costs into your budget before making a purchase.