The Current Landscape for Australian Motorists
The autumn leaves might be falling, but for Australian motorists in May 2026, the cost of keeping a vehicle on the road remains a hot topic. We are currently navigating a unique and volatile set of circumstances. While the Federal Government’s temporary halving of the fuel excise has provided some much-needed relief at the bowser, global supply chain shocks—most notably the ongoing blockade in the Strait of Hormuz—continue to impact the market. Furthermore, local hurdles, such as the recent fire at the Corio refinery in Geelong, serve as a stark reminder of how fragile our domestic fuel supply network can be.
While we cannot control global crude output, OPEC decisions, or refinery outages, we can absolutely control our driving behaviour. As the weather cools across the country, autumn presents a specific set of challenges and opportunities for your vehicle. By adopting a few smart habits, you can maximise your vehicle's fuel efficiency, reduce your running costs, and make the absolute most of the current excise cut before it expires at the end of June.
Why Autumn Requires a Different Approach
Changing seasons mean changing road conditions. Cooler mornings affect tyre pressures, while increased rainfall and damp roads demand more from your vehicle's engine and drivetrain. Adapting your driving style and maintenance routine to suit the autumn months is one of the most effective ways to lower your fuel consumption.
Expert Tips to Maximise Fuel Efficiency
1. Check Your Tyre Pressure Regularly
As the autumn air cools, the air inside your tyres contracts, which can lead to a noticeable drop in tyre pressure. Driving on under-inflated tyres increases rolling resistance, meaning your engine has to work harder—and burn more petrol or diesel—just to keep your car moving. Make it a habit to check your tyre pressures at your local servo at least once a fortnight. Not only will this improve fuel economy, but it will also extend the life of your tyres and keep you safer on wet autumn roads.
2. Shed the Summer Weight
If you're still driving around with the roof racks, bike carriers, or heavy camping gear left over from the summer holidays, it's time to organise a clean-out. Extra weight in the boot or the tray of your ute forces your engine to consume more fuel. Furthermore, roof racks ruin your vehicle's aerodynamics, creating drag that significantly impacts highway efficiency. Strip your car back to the essentials.
3. Master the Art of Smooth Driving
Aggressive driving behaviour—such as heavy acceleration and harsh braking—is one of the biggest fuel wasters. Anticipate traffic flow on the freeway and in the suburbs. By looking further ahead, you can coast to a stop at red lights rather than braking at the last metre. Smooth, steady acceleration uses far less fuel than treating every green light like a drag race.
4. Optimise Your Climate Control
During the peak of summer, the air conditioner is running constantly. In autumn, you have the luxury of choice. While driving at lower speeds around town, consider turning off the AC and rolling down the windows. However, if you are travelling at higher speeds on the freeway, open windows create aerodynamic drag that burns more fuel than the AC unit would. Find the right balance to keep the cabin comfortable without overworking your engine.
5. Stay on Top of Maintenance
A well-maintained vehicle is an efficient vehicle. If your rego is coming up for renewal or you're due for a logbook service, don't delay. Clean oil, fresh air filters, and properly functioning spark plugs are critical for optimal combustion. A clogged air filter restricts airflow to the engine, forcing it to use more fuel to compensate.
Plan Your Trips and Find the Best Value
Beyond vehicle maintenance and driving habits, the simplest way to save money is to plan your journeys efficiently. Combine your errands into one round trip to avoid starting your car multiple times from cold, as engines use significantly more fuel when warming up.
When it is finally time to fill up, having the right information at your fingertips is crucial. While other fuel apps might offer basic data, having a reliable, real-time companion can make a significant difference to your household budget during these unpredictable times.
Take Control with FuelRadar
To truly maximise your savings, you need to know exactly where to find the best value in your area. This is where the FuelRadar app becomes an essential tool for every Australian motorist. Available on both iOS and Android, FuelRadar provides real-time fuel prices Australia-wide, helping you find the cheapest fuel nearby with just a few taps.
Whether you're commuting to the city centre, taking the ute out for a weekend drive, or planning a regional road trip, FuelRadar takes the guesswork out of filling up. You can easily compare prices, spot trends, and ensure you're getting the best possible deal before you even pull into the servo.
Ready to take control of your fuel expenses this autumn? Download the FuelRadar app today or explore our live coverage on the FuelRadar Map to start saving.
