With the cost of fuel continually rising, just thinking about heading to the petrol station is enough to give you heartburn. Gone are the days of paying under $1 per litre for petrol, and those days will probably never come back. So how did we get here? And is there any hope for saving money on gas as prices inch higher and higher?
Fuel in the 1990s
Unleaded petrol was introduced in Australia around 1994 at the same price per litre as super leaded/lead replacement petrol. The price was a modest $0.58 per litre. Due to the low cost of oil during the 1990s, the price of petrol did not fluctuate. In fact, it never rose more than $0.10 at any given time. Driving was cheap and easy in the 90’s, that’s for sure.
Fuel in the 2000s
As we all know, the economy began creeping up on significant problems during the early 21st century, and these problems were clearly reflected by changing gas prices. The cost per barrel of oil itself increased, which in turn caused the cost of petrol to rise. By 2005, the price of oil hit above $100 per barrel and the price of petrol spiked from $0.92 in the first quarter to $1.11 by the 3rd quarter of the year.
Fuel in the 2010s
The average price of petrol now hovers between $1.15 and $1.50 per litre for E10 unleaded. This means that an average small car like a Ford Focus or VW Golf requires between $40 to $60 for a week’s worth of fuel, while a larger SUV might cost $150 per week in petrol costs.
Tips to Minimise Your Fuel Costs
Your money belongs in your wallet, not in your fuel tank. There are a few simple yet effective steps you can take to maximise your vehicle’s fuel efficiency and make the most of every litre of petrol you purchase.
- Check your tyre pressure and keep them inflated to the recommended pressure. Over- or under-inflated tyres will destroy your fuel efficiency.
- Have your car’s oil and transmission fluids changed regularly. Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle, and your car will burn more petrol if it isn’t functioning properly.
- Unload your trunk to stop lugging around extra weight. Every bit of extra weight in your car requires more petrol to constantly move.
Express Lube Auto Service now has five locations on the Central Coast to provide the vehicle servicing that you need to save on fuel. You don’t need to make an appointment at Express Lube, so servicing your vehicle has never been easier! Just drop by in Erina, Tuggerah, West Gosford, Woy Woy, or Cessnock as needed. Your service will be completed by a highly trained and qualified technician.
