Petrol and diesel drivers are set to notice major changes at fuel forecourts across the UK as a major change comes into effect from Monday. As of February 2, petrol stations across the UK must report their prices to the Government’s new Fuel Finder scheme.
The new rule means garages and fuel stations can no longer hide their prices, with road users able to find the cheapest pumps in real time. The move will ensure petrol and diesel owners can reduce their spend at fuel stations in a boost to cash-strapped motorists. Labour has previously suggested the move could save households up to £40 per year in a major boost.
GOV.UK said: “Fuel Finder is a new government service that helps drivers find the cheapest fuel near them. It makes fuel prices available to third-party apps and websites so motorists can compare prices easily.
“If you sell petrol or diesel to the public, you must register and report your prices. You must register all forecourts you’re responsible for before price reporting requirements begin on 2 February 2026.
“If you open a new forecourt after 2 February 2026, you must register it with Fuel Finder within 7 days of starting to sell fuel.”
The Competition and Market Authority (CMA) previously recommended increased price transparency. Some companies have reported prices voluntarily to the CMA for the last couple of years, but the new rule makes this a legal requirement.
Under the legislation, forecourts must update their prices on the database within 30 minutes of any change at the pump. However, petrol stations are unlikely to be penalised for not complying with the rules at this stage.
The CMA will focus on supporting businesses to comply with the rules, with enforcement action unlikely for at least the first three months of the programme. Chancellor Rachel Reeves confirmed the Fuel Finder scheme in her Autumn Budget statement last November.
She explained: “Because I know that changes in wholesale prices are not always passed on to motorists, I am bringing in new rules to mandate petrol forecourts to share real-time price rises through a new Fuel Finder."
"This measure will empower drivers to find the cheapest fuel, call out rip-offs and strengthen competition, saving the average household up to £40 a year."