Drivers urged to think twice before buying supermarket's cheapest fuel

Whilst drivers can save significant money by choosing the cheapest fuel, a motoring expert has shared how choosing it could be costly in the long run.

Motorist fills up a red Toyota with petrol

Drivers have been urged to think twice before filling up their car with the cheapest fuel (Image: Getty)

An automotive expert has urged drivers to think twice before buying a certain type of petrol or diesel that could cause serious issues in the long run.

Whilst the cost of fuel has remained stable for several months, the overall high cost of motoring has caused many motorists to save money wherever possible.

However, the petrol and diesel savings company Right Fuel Card has noted that, whilst supermarket fuels are generally cheaper, they are not always the best to use.

They explained: "There are differences between the fuels you can buy today when you take into account the additives that are sometimes added.

"Supermarkets in the UK offer competitively priced fuel options. However, these fuels might not contain the same level of additives or detergents as branded counterparts. They usually meet regulatory standards but might lack specialised components that enhance engine cleanliness and performance."

Close up of two petrol and diesel pumps at garage

Brand name fuels often contain more detergents that can clean the fuel system (Image: Getty)

According to the RAC, petrol bought from a supermarket is generally 3p per litre cheaper than name brands, such as Esso, Shell, and BP. As a result, drivers can save several pounds when filling up their tank.

However, despite being cheaper to buy, the petrol and diesel typically sold at supermarkets does not feature as many detergents, which are often used to break down deposits in the fuel system over time.

As a result, motorists who routinely use cheap supermarket fuel could soon see a reduction in performance, misfiring, and harsh idling, causing increased vibration.

Nevertheless, Right Fuel Card suggested that drivers should not avoid supermarket fuel, stating that all petrol and diesel sold in the UK has to comply to strict regulations.

They added: "It's worth noting that all petrol and diesel sold in the UK must conform to British and European standards. This is "E10" for unleaded petrol and EN 15940 for diesel fuel.

"Therefore, they all work in the same way and if you combine fuels from different sources, they would all work without an issue. The fuel you find in supermarkets has the same regulations as premium sellers. And they’re held to the same quality and safety standards. So, although it’s cheaper, you can be reassured that you aren’t purchasing a harmful or unsafe product."

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