Motorists Relief: Simple Ways to Cut Costs and Find Support

Fuel prices keep jumping — feels like your car is costing more each week. Motorists relief doesn’t have to be a government program or a long wait. Small, practical changes and knowing where to look for help can shave money off running costs and make driving less stressful.

Save on fuel and everyday running costs

Start with your driving habits. Aggressive acceleration, heavy braking and long idling burn more fuel. Drive smoother, plan trips to combine errands, and use cruise control on highways when possible. Stick to the speed limit — faster speeds use more fuel.

Keep your car maintained. Check tyre pressure monthly (low pressure increases fuel use), replace dirty air filters, and keep up with oil and spark plug changes. A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently and costs less over time.

Trim weight and drag. Remove roof racks or extra cargo when not needed. Every extra kilo and open rooftop increases fuel consumption. Also, use the highest practical gear on manual cars — lower revs usually save fuel.

Compare prices before you fill up. Use local fuel-price trackers, social groups, or apps to spot cheaper stations near you. Loyalty cards, payment apps, or supermarket fuel discounts can cut a few rand every fill — those add up.

Find financial relief, support and emergency help

Check local government or municipal announcements for temporary relief measures or fuel subsidies. During spikes, some governments or provinces announce targeted aid for transporters and low-income drivers — subscribe to official channels so you don’t miss updates.

If you need direct financial help, local NGOs, community funds, or motoring clubs sometimes run short-term assistance programs. Keep receipts for repairs and fuel if you apply for aid — documentation helps speed approval.

Don’t forget insurance and roadside help. Review your policy to confirm what’s covered and if towing or emergency fuel delivery is included. If you don’t have roadside cover, compare plans from motoring clubs — a low-cost annual membership can save a lot when a breakdown hits.

Carpool, share costs, or switch part of your commute to public transport when possible. If you drive for work, ask employers about transport allowances or fuel-card options. Many companies will help if you explain rising costs and show numbers.

Use tech to your advantage: route apps that avoid traffic, fuel trackers to spot price swings, and maintenance reminders to prevent costly breakdowns. Join local driver groups to trade tips on the best stations, mechanics and relief programs near you.

Motorists relief is a mix of smarter driving, regular maintenance, and knowing where to look for help. Start with one change this week — check tyre pressure or compare fuel prices — and build from there. Small steps lead to real savings on the road.