Motorists have been told to fill up their petrol and diesel cars on Wednesday, with fuel prices expected to drop midweek. William Fletcher, MBE, CEO of Car.co.uk, explained that prices are likely to be “at their lowest” in the middle of the week, making it the best time to top up.prices are likely to be “at their lowest” in the middle of the week, making it the best time to top-up.
He warned prices will then start to rise on Thursdays and ahead of the weekend, making Wednesday the absolute best time to fill the tank. According to their analysis of fuel pricing patterns, drivers might only save a few pence per litre, but experts have stressed that small amounts quickly add up over months of regular fill-ups.
The tip could help motorists save around 2p per litre on their fuel bills every time they top-up, with experts suggesting road users could save more than £50 every year.
William explained: “Fuel retailers typically adjust their prices mid-week based on wholesale costs and competitor activity. By Wednesday, you'll often find prices at their lowest before they start creeping up again heading into the weekend.”
William added: “Drivers don't realise that something as simple as changing which day they fill up can make a tangible difference to their annual fuel spend.
“If you're saving even 2p per litre and you fill a 50-litre tank weekly, that's £52 saved over a year, which is enough for a few extra tanks of fuel.”
William stressed that road users should make sure to download a fuel price comparison app or check online before heading out to fuel stations for the best price.
This is because topping-up in the middle of the week isn’t an exact science and he stressed that some areas may notice cheaper rates either side of Wednesday due to regional variance.
William added: “Pricing can vary by region depending on local competition and supply chains. Spend a few weeks tracking prices at your usual stations and you'll start to see when they tend to drop. Some areas might find Tuesday or Thursday works better.”
According to data from RAC Fuel Watch, petrol prices dipped in January, with costs down from 135.28p per litre to 131.91p. Diesel rates also declined from 144.18p per litre at the start of the month to 140.97p per litre by the end.