Petrol prices

About our data

The fuel price data we use is taken from the open data scheme provided by the UK Government.

Fuel Finder is a UK government service that provides live fuel prices and forecourt information across the UK. It's there to increase market competition, while also helping drivers find the cheapest petrol near them.

Under the scheme, petrol stations in the UK are legally required to report their fuel prices to Fuel Finder within 30 minutes of any price change. This mandatory requirement applies to all petrol filling stations in the UK.

Around 90% of petrol stations are now participating in Fuel Finder, and the remaining stations are expected to start sharing their pricing data as soon as possible.

If a small number of petrol stations fail to comply, the Competition and Markets Authority has the power to take enforcement action against them.

It's important to note that prices displayed for individual retailers may sometimes be delayed, depending on how frequently they submit their updates to Fuel Finder.

Why do petrol prices go up and down?

Petrol prices aren't fixed. When supply is low and demand is high, prices rise. But when supply is high and demand is lower, prices tend to fall.

But what exactly affects pricing? Let's take a closer look at why petrol prices go up and down:

• Global Crude Oil Prices: Crude oil makes up the bulk of fuel costs, and its price is set globally. It rises and falls based on supply and demand, geopolitical tensions, and shipping disruptions. For example, tanker traffic through contested routes.
• Taxes and Duty: Over half of what you pay at the pump goes directly to the government. The UK has a fixed Fuel Duty (currently 52.95p per litre) plus 20% VAT, which is applied after the duty, amplifying any changes in wholesale costs.
• The "Rocket and Feather" Effect: Prices rocket when wholesale oil costs rise because retailers rapidly adjust to protect their profit margins. But the good news is that when wholesale prices fall, pump prices usually take longer to come down. This is because retailers may still be selling fuel bought at the higher wholesale price, and it takes time for lower-cost fuel to move through the supply and distribution chain.
• Exchange Rates: Because global oil is traded in US Dollars, the value of the Pound against the Dollar directly impacts how much it costs the UK to import fuel. A weaker local currency can hike up the price of imported oil, even if the global oil price stays the same.
• Local Competition: Prices vary significantly depending on local supermarkets, independent stations, or motorway services, as they factor in their own overheads and delivery costs.

How to save on fuel costs

Driving more efficiently is a win-win situation, helping cut the cost of petrol, while also reducing the strain on your car.

As well as watching your driving habits, there is also a variety of money-saving hacks to save on petrol.

Let's unpack a few ways to save on fuel costs:

• Check fuel comparison tools: Fuel prices vary widely, and in the UK, petrol stations must publish their prices. That means you can check prices in real time to get prices near your location.
• Avoid motorways where you can: Motorway services tend to be pricier than other petrol stations. Planning your route before travelling is a good way to avoid hefty charges, and ensure your car is filled up before you go.
• Make the most of loyalty schemes: Stack your savings by pairing supermarket loyalty cards to earn points or cash back on every fill-up.
• Drive smoothly: Easy does it! Accelerate gently and avoid hard braking, as these increase your overall fuel consumption.
• Watch your speed: Driving at 60–65 mph instead of 70–75 mph can save fuel on long journeys. Fuel consumption rapidly increases at high motorway speeds.
• Maintain correct tyre pressure: Looking after your tyres is crucial. Underinflated tyres force your engine to work harder as they increase rolling distance.
• Avoid excessive idling: Turning the engine off when it's safe and appropriate can also save fuel. So if you've stopped for more than a minute, consider turning off the engine if you're able.
• Keep up with vehicle maintenance: Give your car the TLC it deserves with clean air filters, fresh engine oil, and regular servicing to help your engine run as efficiently as possible.

Learn more about improving your fuel economy.