10 Fuel-Saving Hacks Every Filipino Driver Should Know
Owning a car in the Philippines comes with one unavoidable, pricy reality—gas expenses. With pump prices changing almost weekly, fuel can eat up a big chunk out of a driver’s monthly budget.
The good news? You don’t always need to upgrade to a hybrid or the latest model to save on fuel. With the right habits and regular car care, you can boost mileage and reduce fuel waste.
Here are 10 essential fuel-saving tips every Filipino driver should keep in mind.
1. Practice Smooth and Steady Driving 🚘
Aggressive driving—frequent acceleration, sudden braking, and weaving through traffic, not only wastes gas but also increases wear and tear on your car. Smooth driving, on the other hand, allows you to maximize fuel efficiency and gives you a safer driving experience.
Note: Use cruise control if your car has it, especially on expressways like NLEX or SLEX, to maintain a steady speed.
2. Maintain Proper Tire Pressure 🛞
Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, forcing your engine to work harder and burn more fuel. Over time, this adds up significantly to your total fuel costs.
- Properly inflated tires can improve fuel economy by 3–5% while also extending tire life.
Note: Check your tire pressure at least once a month or before long trips. Most gas stations offer free air service so take advantage of it.
3. Lighten the Load in Your Vehicle 🧱
Every additional kilo in your trunk means your car burns more gas. Heavy items like old tools, unnecessary bags, or unused equipment are better off the vehicle as it only increases fuel consumption. In addition, roof racks and carriers add wind resistance, reducing fuel efficiency on highways.
Note: Declutter your trunk regularly and remove roof racks if you don’t need them. You’ll surely notice smoother rides and better mileage.
4. Stick to Regular Maintenance ⚙️
A healthy engine is a fuel-efficient engine. Dirty air filters, worn spark plugs, and poor oil quality all reduce fuel efficiency. Neglecting maintenance usually means your car needs more fuel to perform basic functions.
Note: Follow your car’s Preventive Maintenance Schedule (PMS). Tasks like oil changes, spark plug replacements, and filter cleaning directly improve fuel economy.
Bonus: Always ask your mechanic to check for carbon buildup and ensure your engine is tuned properly. It’s one of the most overlooked fuel-saving steps.
5. Plan Your Routes Wisely 🧭
Nothing wastes gas faster than sitting idle in heavy traffic. While congestion in Metro Manila and other urban centers is sometimes unavoidable, planning your routes helps minimize wasted fuel.
Note: Use apps like Waze or Google Maps to find alternate routes or avoid bottlenecks. If possible, run errands during off-peak hours.
6. Limit Engine Idling ⚡️
Many Filipino drivers still believe warming up their engines for several minutes is necessary. With modern engines, it is nothing but wasteful as prolonged idling just eats up your fuel.
Note: If you’re waiting for someone for more than 2–3 minutes, switch off the engine. Restarting uses less fuel than idling for extended periods.
7. Use Aircon Strategically 💨
In a tropical country like the Philippines, air conditioning is no doubt a lifesaver. However, it is also a gas guzzler! Running the aircon at maximum setting, especially in traffic, significantly increases fuel use.
Notes:
- At low speeds, roll down your windows for ventilation.
- At highway speeds, keep windows up to reduce drag and run the aircon moderately.
- Park in shaded areas whenever possible so that your cabin doesn’t heat up too much.
8. Fuel Up Smartly ⛽️
Fuel efficiency also depend on when and how you fuel up.
Notes:
- Refuel in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler—fuel is denser, giving you a bit more for the same peso.
- Take advantage of loyalty programs like Shell Go+, Petron Value Card, or Caltex Rewards for points and discounts.
- Watch weekly fuel price updates. Filling up before a price hike can save hundreds of pesos monthly.
9. Choose the Right Vehicle for Your Lifestyle 🚙
If you’re still car shopping or considering a switch, fuel economy should be part of your topmost priorities. Generally, compact cars and sedans are more efficient than SUVs, while diesel engines tend to perform better for long-distance driving.
Note: Look beyond the purchase price. A slightly more expensive but fuel-efficient model could save you much more in the long run.
10. Drive Less, Save More 💰
Sometimes, the best way to save fuel is to simply reduce unnecessary driving.
Notes:
- Carpool with family, friends, or officemates.
- Use delivery services instead of making multiple personal trips.
- If possible, walk or bike for short distances.
Fuel-saving doesn’t require drastic changes—it’s about consistent, everyday habits. From driving smoothly to sticking to maintenance schedules and fueling up smartly, these small steps lead to big savings over time.
By practicing these hacks, you’ll not only stretch your budget but also reduce wear and tear on your car, making every trip safer, smoother, and more sustainable.
