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TOP OIL INSIGHT

Fuel Efficiency Tips Every Ghanaian Driver Should Know.

Fuel prices in Ghana have become one of the most closely watched indicators of economic impact for the everyday citizen. Whether you're a private car owner in Accra, a commercial driver in Kumasi, or a delivery rider in Tamale, how much fuel you consume affects how far your money goes each week. While price changes are often beyond your control, the good news is that how you use fuel isn't. With some simple but smart adjustments, you can stretch every litre and save money without reducing your mobility or compromising on comfort. 

One of the most overlooked causes of fuel wastage is aggressive driving. Frequent acceleration, sudden braking, and unnecessary speeding drain your tank faster than most people realize. When you drive with a heavy foot, your engine works harder, consuming more fuel even for short distances. Adopting a smooth and steady driving style—especially in traffic-prone areas like Circle, Lapaz, and Adum—can help you conserve fuel and reduce wear on your vehicle. It’s not about driving slowly, but about driving consistently and anticipating the road ahead. 

Another fuel-saving practice that many Ghanaian drivers ignore is maintaining the right tyre pressure. When your tyres are underinflated, your car uses more fuel to overcome increased rolling resistance. Unfortunately, many drivers only check tyre pressure when they notice something visibly wrong. This is not ideal. Experts recommend checking your tyre pressure at least every two weeks. Thankfully, most filling stations in Ghana offer free tyre pressure checks. Don’t skip this simple habit—it makes a real difference, especially for ride-hailing and delivery drivers who cover long distances daily. 

If you’re in the habit of leaving your engine idling, it’s time to reconsider. Keeping the engine running while waiting for someone or making a quick stop may seem harmless, but it quietly burns through your fuel. If you anticipate being stationary for more than a minute or two, turning off the engine and restarting it when you're ready to move is the more efficient choice. This is particularly important for taxi and Bolt drivers waiting for passengers, or business owners doing deliveries across multiple stops. 

Beyond driving habits, vehicle maintenance is a key player in fuel efficiency. When was the last time you changed your air filter or spark plugs? A clogged air filter can reduce your car’s ability to breathe properly, while worn spark plugs can misfire and waste fuel. Regular servicing, oil changes, and engine checks may feel like added costs, but they save you money in the long run—both in fuel economy and in avoiding major repairs. TopOil recommends following your vehicle manufacturer’s maintenance schedule or consulting with a trusted mechanic who understands local conditions. 

Don’t underestimate the impact of carrying excess weight. The more load you carry, the more fuel your car needs to move. Many Ghanaian drivers travel with unnecessary items in their boots—old parts, water gallons, unused equipment—which weigh the car down over time. It’s especially common in commercial vehicles where space is maximized. Evaluate your load weekly and remove anything you don’t need. Lightening your car helps lighten your fuel bill too. 

Another clever tip is route planning. Ghana’s urban traffic can be unpredictable, and getting stuck in congestion wastes both time and fuel. Use route apps like Google Maps to check traffic conditions before starting your journey. Leaving home just 10 minutes earlier to avoid peak traffic or choosing a longer but faster-moving route can save you a lot in the long run. This is a game-changer for drivers in cities like Accra, Takoradi, and Kumasi. 

Lastly, watch your use of air conditioning. While A/C is a comfort in our warm climate, using it excessively, especially at low speeds—can increase fuel consumption. When driving in cooler early mornings or late evenings, try switching off the A/C and rolling down your windows if conditions permit. It’s a small change with big savings over time. 

Fuel efficiency isn't reserved for mechanics or experts—it’s for every Ghanaian who drives. With rising fuel costs and increasing demand on household budgets, making these simple adjustments can result in real savings over weeks and months. At TopOil, we care about more than just selling fuel. We care about helping you get the most out of every litre, drive smarter, and stay on the road longer. 

We encourage all our customers to try these tips, share them with others, and join us in promoting smarter fuel usage across Ghana. Every litre saved is cedis earned—and that’s something we all need in today’s economy.