With experts predicting that Brits might return to offices by spring, CarParts4Less has revealed how much extra that might cost UK employees.
With two-thirds of Brits not planning on using public transport anymore, motoring costs are going to be up and will cost people an average of nearly £200 a month.
Over a year, this amounts to £2,300 of extra costs for workers, with nearly half of this spent on fuel alone (£1,142).
The study found that fuel costs the typical driver £1,142 every 12 months. This varies considerably by fuel-type, however, as while a year’s worth of petrol will set you back a steep £1,042, a diesel engine is 26% more expensive, averaging £1,312.
Even at current fuel prices, which are at a four-year low due to Covid-19, it would cost an eye-watering £890 for petrol and £1,112 for diesel.
The next biggest cost is insurance. While this depends on many factors, such as your car, where you live and the type of cover, the average motorist forks out over £500 annually.
On top of these, London drivers may also have to pay congestion charges. At £11.50 a day, a commuter could spend £2,600 a year travelling through the city centre, taking their overall annual motoring costs to a staggering £4,900.
Here is a full breakdown of the yearly costs:
Fuel (petrol / diesel)
£1,142 (£1,042 petrol / £1,312 diesel)
Congestion charges (London) – £2,600
Insurance – £506
Repairs/servicing/other work – £303
Road tax – £145
Spare parts – £72
Parking – £50
Garage rent/car washing/other costs – £41
Breakdown cover – £18
Accessories/fittings – £9
Anti-freeze, battery water, cleaning materials – £5
Motor oils – £5
Fines – £5
Total (exc. congestion charges) – £2,299
Total (inc. congestion charges) – £4,899
While some of the costs, such as road tax and breakdown cover, may be set in stone, it is possible to cut down on some of the other expenses.
CarParts4Less has given its top tips on how to reduce the top three motoring costs:
Reduce fuel costs by managing your revs
The most fuel-efficient RPM to change up a gear is 2,500 for a petrol car and 2,000 for diesel. Try to check your revs count to avoid over-revving, which wastes precious fuel. Driving at 55-65mph instead of 70-80mph can also save you money, as your engine runs at a lower RPM, reducing fuel consumption by 25%.
Reduce insurance costs by selecting the right cover
Third-party insurance is the most basic form of cover, but it is not always the cheapest. Make sure you shop around and check the price of fully comprehensive cover, as, despite offering the most protection, that is often where the best deals are found.
Reduce repair costs by doing your own car maintenance
Basic car maintenance can help your vehicle run more efficiently and reduce the likelihood of you needing to pay for repairs. Keep things running smoothly by ensuring engine fluids are topped up. Minor defects like broken mirrors or bulbs can easily be replaced at home instead of paying for labour charges.
Helen Robinson from CarParts4Less said: “For many Brits, driving is an essential part of their lifestyle, but unfortunately it comes with some substantial costs. Our research has highlighted the variety of expenses that a typical driver has to pay and they certainly add up.
“However, there are a few things that motorists can do to keep these costs down and hopefully our tips can help to make driving more affordable.”
For ten expert tips on how to reduce the cost of your car insurance, visit: https://www.carparts4less.co.uk/blog/ten-ways-to-save-money-on-your-car-insurance