Petrol and diesel drivers can boost fuel efficiency with ‘essential’ summer fix for £50

Motorists can help save on their petrol and diesel fuel costs in 2024 with a summer fix which will only set road users back £50.

By Luke Chillingsworth, Cars Reporter

petrol station

Motorists could save fuel with a simple fix (Image: Getty)

Motorists can improve fuel efficiency by making a £50 fix to one of the most important components of a vehicle this summer, according to motoring specialists.

Experts at ClickMechanic revealed that re-gassing the air conditioning unit is an “absolute must” if motorists wish to save on petrol and diesel costs. 

Running a vehicle with an old solution will likely burn more fuel as the “engine has to work harder”. 

Not solving the issue also comes with the risk of damaging the component meaning that getting regular maintenance is crucial to the upkeep

According to ClickMechanic, a simple fix costs between £50 and £150 depending on the model making it affordable for almost all road users.

air conditioning

Air conditioning units have to be maintained (Image: Getty)

Andrew Jervis, spokesperson for ClickMechanic said: “Air conditioning is essential when it comes to driving during the summer months.

“Being behind the wheel in hot weather can become somewhat uncomfortable without air conditioning, so keeping it in good working order is an absolute must.

“However, it can be easy to forget to re-gas the air conditioning system which leaves it at greater risk of malfunctioning.

“This isn’t just a problem in summer, either. It can make it more difficult to de-mist windows in winter, so it’s important to keep it in good shape all year round.

“It can also make vehicles less fuel efficient as the engine has to work harder and it can lead to pipe damage, too.”

The warning comes as petrol and diesel costs continue to remain high for road users across the UK. 

Data from RAC Fuel Watch has unveiled that petrol and diesel fees are up by around 10p per litre since the start of 2024. 

Mr Jervis added: “Air conditioning systems need to have the old refrigerant gas removed and replaced with new refrigerant every two years or so, depending on the model of the vehicle.

“It’s important to be aware of the key signs that it might not be working as it should, and then it’s a fairly simple task to get it sorted.”

The system pumping out warm air or a bad odour may be common signs that the vehicle needs an air conditioning service. 

Parts making a rattling sound or the appearance of condensation are also vital signs that the components may be suffering.

Experts at Halfords stressed that having a working air conditioning unit was “absolutely crucial” as temperatures started to rise this summer. 

Halfords explained: “Having a robust air conditioning system that can keep your car at the right temperature is absolutely crucial. 

“That’s because being comfortable while driving can help you stay focused and alert on the roads.”

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