Motorists have been told to “avoid” visiting one type of fuel station, with road users at risk of paying up to 20p per litre more to fill up their petrol and diesel cars. William Fletcher, CEO of Car.co.uk, has warned road users should never fill up at a motorway service station to avoid “eye-watering” costs.
The expert has warned that motorway forecourts typically charge significantly more than high street fuel stations, in a major blow. Motorway stations can sometimes be as much as 15 to 20 pence per litre higher, adding up to £10 on the price of every fill-up.
Experts claim that service stations charge more because petrol stations have a captive audience and higher operating costs. But, William urged motorists to stay away, with the higher costs set to be bad news for cash-strapped road users.
William said: “The difference in price between motorway services and regular forecourts is substantial. Unless it's an emergency, it's always worth planning ahead to fill up before you hit the motorway. Those extra few minutes can save you £10 or more on a single tank.”
According to data from RAC Fuel Watch, average unleaded petrol costs sit at 138.96p per litre across the UK, but a whopping 160.94p at motorway service stations.
Meanwhile, diesel cars prices are at an average of 155.12p, with motorway service stations 17p more, with costs at 172.68p. Instead, William has urged motorists to fill up before joining the motorway wherever possible.
They explained that planning a route and checking fuel prices along the way can help to avoid the motorway markup entirely. William suggested that road users who need to refuel on a long journey should consider leaving the motorway altogether.
He stressed road users are more likely to find a cheaper station in a nearby town if motorists have time to divert their journey.
William added: “Small changes to your refuelling habits can lead to meaningful savings.By checking prices before you fill up, choosing supermarket forecourts, and avoiding motorway services, you could easily save £5 to £10 every time you refuel.
“Over the course of a year, that could add up to several hundred pounds, which is money that could go towards other household expenses or even a weekend away."