Motorists are bracing for steep petrol and diesel price hikes at the pump next month.
The latest data from the Central Energy Fund indicates that petrol is set to go up by roughly R5 per litre, while diesel will receive an even larger bump of R8 per litre.
These price increases are the result of the unstable situation in the Middle East as the United States and its allies continue to clash with Iran, disrupting global petroleum shipments.
This has led to an enormous jump in the cost of oil, which reached $112 per barrel this past weekend.
At the same time, the rand has weakened against the US dollar, depreciating from under R15 per dollar to R17.20 per dollar as of the final week of March 2026.
These international factors have led to concerns over fuel shortages, with motorists in smaller towns and cities already reporting outages at their local forecourts.
With all this in mind, motorists are increasingly seeking ways to reduce their consumption to save on petrol and mitigate the risks posed by fuel shortages.
One solution involves vehicle maintenance, as there are several steps owners can take to ensure their car runs smoothly and doesn’t burn fuel unnecessarily.
Maintenance tips to save petrol
Miway Insurance recently shared a list of tips that motorists can follow to maintain their cars and improve fuel consumption.
“Simple maintenance steps and informed vehicle decisions can have a noticeable impact on monthly fuel spending, especially during periods of rising prices,” said Sherry Sibeko, Executive Head for Personal Lines at Miway Insurance Limited.
One of the first things to check is tyre pressure, as tyres that are underinflated create more rolling resistance.
This means the tyre is creating more friction with the road surface, which in turn means the car is working harder to maintain its speed, burning more fuel than necessary.
Sibeko also recommends that motorists regularly service their cars to ensure that all the components are working efficiently.
“A well-maintained engine operates more efficiently. Replacing air filters, ensuring spark plugs are in good condition, and keeping fluids topped up can all help improve how efficiently a vehicle runs.”
She added that wheel alignment is another often-overlooked factor.
“When wheels are not properly aligned, the vehicle essentially works against itself as it moves forward. This increases drag and causes the engine to use more fuel than necessary.”
The insurance company noted that many consumers may be considering selling their cars to purchase a more fuel-efficient model like a hybrid; however it warned these individuals to consider all their options before taking this step.
“Fuel-efficient vehicles can make a significant difference to monthly transport costs, particularly for motorists who travel long distances every day.”
“However, consumers should look at the full financial picture. While a more efficient vehicle may reduce fuel costs, factors such as financing, insurance and maintenance should also be taken into account.”
Ultimately, Sibeko said that the most effective strategy for managing rising fuel prices combines smarter vehicle choices with better driving and maintenance habits.
“Whether it’s maintaining your current vehicle properly or adopting everyday fuel-saving driving habits, proactive decisions can help motorists stay ahead of rising fuel costs.”
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