Motorists have been told to reverse into car park bays to slash petrol and diesel fuel costs this year. Specialists have claimed reversing is better with a “warm engine” in a little-known trick many are likely to be unaware of. 

Motoring experts at ReduceMyExcess stressed that reversing out of a car park bay will “use up more fuel” than the other way around. Experts urged road users to “get a little practice in” to ensure they can make as many savings as possible. The tip was first issued to road users last year but the advice remains true in 2025.

ReduceMyExcess said: “If you’re heading out to a car park, take the time to reverse into the space instead of simply cruising in with front bay parking.

"That’s because reversing out of a space will use up more fuel, and it’s better to do this manoeuvre with a warm engine.

“In other words, if you’re not confident with reverse parking but want to save on your fuel bill, now might be the time to get a little practice in so that reversing in becomes a habit.”

Fuel experts at Esso also previously urged road users to reverse park if at all possible.

They said: “Always try to reverse into a parking space so you can drive straight out. This is because manoeuvring while the engine is cold uses more fuel.

Data from RAC Fuel Watch has Unleaded fuel at a UK-wide average of 135.54p per litre. 

Diesel sits at 142.2p per litre but the breakdown experts suggest prices “should fall” in the near future.

Meanwhile, specialists at FleetGo have stressed much of the problem is down to how cold the engine is when it is first fired.

FleetGo said: “A cold engine consumes more fuel than a warm engine, and it wears much faster. So go easy when the engine is cold, and try to reduce the engine speed until the engine is warm.

“Park your car in the direction of travel. Park your car in such a way that the next time you set off, you can simply drive away. As described earlier, a cold engine consumes more fuel, so if you need to reverse out of your parking spot, you will burn extra fuel.”