Is it cheaper to get petrol at night? Money Saving Expert explains if 'urban myth' is true
31.07.2023 - 12:13
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Consumer website Money Saving Expert has explained whether an 'urban myth' on the best time to get petrol is actually true.
The site, which was founded by Martin Lewis, said drivers may be able to get a little bit more for their money if they fill up at a certain time of day.
MSE says drivers may get a 'tiny, tiny bit' more petrol if they go to the pumps at night time.
This is due to the fact that temperatures are colder at night, resulting in fuel pumps being calibrated by volume. Because of this, you can get a small amount of extra fuel by filling up when it's colder outside, Yorkshire Live reports.
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The petroleum liquid inside fuel pumps expands when temperatures are warm which means motorists are getting less fuel when temperatures are excessively warm, however, the opposite is true when temperatures are at their coldest, such as in the middle of the night.
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While getting more for your money by filling up at night was originally considered an urban myth, MSE says there is a hint of truth to it.
The site says: "Talk of filling up at night getting you more is a slight urban myth, as the difference is minuscule – pennies at best. Fuel pumps are calibrated by volume, so fill up at night when it's colder and you get a tiny, tiny bit extra."
According to the RAC, the average unleaded petrol price in the UK is currently 144.39p per litre - while for diesel, the average price is 145.16p per litre. The Office for National Statistics said falling fuel prices was the biggest driver behind a recent drop in inflation, which stood at 7.9% in the 12 months