A leading motoring expert has warned that a common fuel economy theory could put drivers “at risk” and may not even cut costs, dealing a blow to British drivers looking to save money.
A leading automotive expert has issued a stark warning that a popular fuel-saving technique could put drivers “at risk” and not even reduce costs, dealing a blow to UK motorists.
Graham Conway, spokesman for Select Car Leasing, said petrol and diesel owners were allowing their vehicles to coast in a bid to increase fuel efficiency. However, he stressed that coasting before coming to a complete stop was dangerous and could “reduce control”.
This means drivers who press the clutch pedal or coast will have “less time to react”. Coasting reduces steering control as the tyres become decoupled from the engine, the Express reports. This means drivers will have to shift back into gear to take evasive action, such as manoeuvring around an obstacle.
Graham explained: “Most of us will admit to letting our vehicles coast a little when going down a hill or stopping. It is a common theory that this improves fuel efficiency as the revolutions per minute (RPM) decrease. However, this is not necessarily the case and coasting can put other drivers at risk.
“This is because it reduces the control you have over your vehicle and means you have less time to react to sudden danger or take evasive action.” Frequently coasting in an effort to save on fuel costs could also take a toll on drivers financially in the long run. According to Select Car Leasing, excessive use of this technique can lead to long-term damage to the component.
Excessive use of the release bearing can lead to “increased wear and tear”, which can cost drivers between £400 and £800 in repairs. Drivers could also face severe penalties, including fines and a driving ban, for breaching these rules. Failing to maintain control of the vehicle could result in a hefty £1,000 fine and points removed from the licence.
Graham also warned that pedal-less driving may not save fuel, meaning drivers may be following this advice unnecessarily. He added: “Keeping the car running is actually much more fuel efficient.”
“This is because in most modern vehicles the engine uses the transmission line instead of fuel to turn and the car’s computer cuts off the fuel injection.”
