Tank Alert

Tips and Tricks to Save on Fuel

Tank Alert Redaktion ·

Focused guidance that cuts consumption, nails the best refuel timing, and keeps everyday driving efficient.

Save up to 6 € per tankBest refuel timingUse price alerts
Habits
4 tips

How can better driving habits save fuel?

  • 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.
Maintenance
3 tips

How does vehicle maintenance cut fuel costs?

  • Regularly check tyre pressure to minimise 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.
Refuel
6 tips

When and how to refuel at the cheapest price?

  • 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 prices with Tank Alert: Use Tank Alert to monitor fuel prices in your area and set alerts for when prices drop — so you always refuel at the best price.
Lifestyle
3 tips

How to reduce fuel use in everyday life?

  • Plan efficient routes to combine errands into one trip, maximising 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.
Finance
4 tips

Which money-saving tricks are actually worth it?

  • Use fuel rewards credit cards for discounts or cashback on petrol purchases.
  • Join supermarket or petrol station rewards programmes for discounts at participating stations.
  • Use loyalty programmes such as: Aral: Payback points, Esso: Deutschland-Card, Shell: Club Smart Card
  • Compare fuel prices before filling up using Tank Alert or the ADAC petrol price app to always find the cheapest station near you.
Environment
3 tips

How can I drive more sustainably and still save money?

  • 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.