All drivers in the UK who practice this technique must beware that huge fines can be imposed if they are using this popular fuel-saving method. The primary reason why the fine is so steep is, that it can be a very dangerous way of going about making your car supposedly more fuel-efficient but really making you are your passengers more susceptible to being in a hazardous situation.
The term coasting is covered under Rule 122 of the Highway Code and is referred to as a vehicle travelling in neutral or having the clutch pressed down. Although this is a common method, it’s also considered as being a dangerous method because it can reduce driver control.
When this is applied, the engine braking is totally eliminated and the coasting can actually speed up the vehicle when coasting downhill.
The worrying factor can result in, driers seeing a reduction in the effectiveness of braking, as a result of the built-up speed which is incurred. Another possible hazard is your responsive steering can also be compromised on bends and corners, and may also be more difficult to select the correct gear when required.
Fines
So to summarise, failure to have proper control of a vehicle can result in a fine of up to £1,000 or driving licence disqualification. This fine can further increase to £2,500 if driving a larger vehicle such as a coach, HGV, or bus.
One thing that has been stated by John Wilmot, the CEO of LeaseLoco, “coasting may be affected by technology in cars.” He went on to say, “Coasting is no longer beneficial to energy efficiency due to the fuel in the majority of modern cars.”
“When we drive downhill in gear, our engine ECU detects that the accelerator isn’t engaged and cuts fuel from going into the fuel injectors.” He added, “We use no fuel or very little when driving downhill in gear, however, when we drive downhill in neutral, our engine and wheels become disconnected and by doing so it forces a small amount of fuel to be sent to the engine due to the car not receiving the rotational power it needs from the wheels, instead of drawing that power directly from the wheels.”
There’s also a potential danger of damaging the vehicle and doing coasting on a consistent basis could cause the brakes to become worn out a lot quicker. Plus by driving in neutral, the driver becomes more reliant on the mechanical brakes due to the engine brakes disengaging. This can also wear out the mechanical brakes a lot quicker.
Some fuel saving advice
- Start by removing excess weight from your vehicle
- Check that your tyres are inflated to the correct pressure.
- Relax on the accelerator. Make your speed constant and steady, as much as possible.
- Keep your car windows closed to reduce drag.
- Avoid engine idling as much as possible
- Try to shop around for the cheapest fuel. Research has shown that savings can be made through large supermarket chains.
More good advice
One quick way to try and save fuel is to trade in your old car with a more fuel-efficient one. At WOO Carz, based in Southampton, we have a large selection of quality used cars to select from. We can do an MPG comparison to make sure the make and model of the car you are purchasing will have a better fuel economy than your old car.
All our WOO Carz come with a full warranty and are fully inspected. And no matter where you live in the UK, we will deliver your car free of charge to your home or place of work.
Even if you can’t see the used car of your dreams on our website, we can easily source one for you by using our vast network of partners and contacts in the industry.
To find out more about our selection of cars, and how we work with our contactless service online, give us a call on 02382543928 and speak to one of our friendly advisors. Or to get a finance decision within an hour, click here and see if you can approval today.
WOO Carz Ltd is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under reference number 626798.