Drivers told to add 1 common item to improve fuel economy

Petrol and diesel owners could boost their fuel economy by remembering to pour this one solution inside their vehicles during periods of hot weather. Darren Miller, a spokesperson from motoring specialists BigWantsYourCar.com, urged road users to ensure coolant levels are properly maintained.

He warned low coolant levels were “risky” with higher temperatures leading to “serious engine damage”. Overheating engines due to a lack of coolant work less efficiently than models topped up with the right amount of solution. This would require more fuel to maintain performance, reducing petrol and diesel efficiency rates.

Darren explained: "Keeping proper engine coolant levels is key, especially in hot weather, as overheating can cause serious engine damage. Remember, low coolant levels are risky and can lead to expensive repairs.

"Regular servicing of your air conditioning system is necessary, particularly after the winter period.

“Bacteria buildup within the system can compromise air quality and cooling efficiency, making professional servicing important for the best performance and driving experience."

Drivers can change their car coolant at home in just a matter of minutes meaning they won't need to visit a garage to get their tanks topped up.

Car experts at Halfords stressed that road users should drain their tanks before topping up with the new solution.

Motorists can often choose from a ready-mixed solution or concentrated antifreeze which is often mixed with water.

After topping up the coolant levels, Halfords urges road users to ​​start the engine and run it at idling speed for between 10 and 15 minutes.

Motoring experts at Prestone warned that coolant labels can drop by ​​as much as 0.25% every four months under normal conditions.

They warned the “losses can add up” over a five or 10-year cycle, with tanks slowly draining until no coolant is left.

Prestone stressed that bad fuel economy is one of the most significant warning signs of low coolant in any combustion vehicle.

They explained: “When your car engine runs at the right temperature, fuel can burn efficiently keeping consumption low.

“As the engine temperature changes, fuel can’t burn as effectively, increasing emissions from the exhaust. If you notice a dip in recorded MPG, check your coolant level and watch the temperature gauge for signs of overheating.”