THIS WEEK: Petrol

1Fuel prices can fluctuate by over 10 cent per litre depending on the garage you visit, so by choosing wisely you can knock over 10 per cent off your annual petrol bill. Rather than drive around in search of better value – which defeats the purpose somewhat – check out www.pumps.ie for prices.

2Buy a set number of litres of petrol every time you visit the forecourt rather than spending a set amount of euro. If you buy 40 litres of fuel, instead of €40 worth, the price gap between garages for the same amount of fuel becomes much clearer.

3Take it easy on the pedals. The more you accelerate and brake, the more fuel you waste. By driving at a nice steady 50mph instead of revving up to 70mph frequently, you will burn about 25 per cent less petrol.

4Empty your boot and take the roof rack off the car. The heavier the car the harder it has to work and the more fuel it needs. Roof racks ruin the carefully constructed aerodynamics of the car and increase your fuel bills.

5Make sure your tyres are at the proper pressure and clean your air filters – if they become clogged, they restrict airflow to the engine so fuel consumption is increased.

6Cycle or walk to the shop and take the bus to work. Don't automatically hop in the car at every available opportunity, it's just costing you money and polluting the planet.