Petrol and diesel drivers risk £100 fine when searching for cheap fuel prices

Motorists have been cautioned about trying to find the cheapest fuel in their local area amid fears they could be at risk of breaking down and incurring further costs.

Since its launch in February, experts have urged drivers across the UK to use the Government's Fuel Finder tool to slash their petrol and diesel costs.

The Fuel Finder scheme has acted as a lifeline for motorists as they adapt to soaring petrol and diesel prices as a result of the war in Iran.

Fresh data from RAC Fuel Watch shows that drivers are paying an average of 156.98p for petrol and a staggering 188.53p for diesel.

The RAC forecasts that petrol prices will remain largely stagnant, while diesel and premium diesel costs could come down in the near future.

Tensions in the Middle East remain high, although modelling from the Government suggests that drivers could save between one and six pence per litre when using Fuel Finder.

Using the tool can help them find the cheapest fuel in their local area, with many drivers likely to travel slightly further to save money, especially as millions continue to struggle with the cost of living crisis.

While drivers can make good savings, experts are warning motorists that they could face other issues when travelling greater distances to fill up.

Lee Puffett, managing director of Start Rescue, acknowledged that all motorists were "feeling the pinch" of higher petrol and diesel prices,

He added: "Driving several miles out of your way or making a dedicated trip to fill up could mean paying more overall and possibly running out of fuel altogether, especially as more drivers run their cars to near empty due to high costs."

Rule 97 of the Highway Code states that drivers have sufficient fuel or charge for their journey, especially if they are travelling on the motorway.

Running out of fuel on the motorway can lead to a £100 fine and three penalty points for careless driving, in addition to any recovery fees, Mr Puffett noted.

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He continued, saying: "Driving further to save a small amount could be expensive if your vehicle breaks down due to fuel starvation and you don't have breakdown cover, which includes running out of fuel.

"We advise monitoring local fuel forecourts and, as you are passing by, to fill up with petrol or diesel when the fuel gauge shows roughly a quarter tank."

The Fuel Finder scheme is now being supported by the Competition and Markets Authority's (CMA) new enforcement powers, which were introduced on May 1.

Petrol stations could now face consequences if they do not update their details within 30 minutes of a change to keep pricing transparent for drivers.

Most expensive petrol prices

Spar Lapford Cross, Crediton, Devon (EX17 6QT) - 193.9p

EG Rivington North PFS, Bolton, Greater Manchester (BL6 5UZ) - 186.9p

Lochaline Filling Station, Morvern, West Highlands (PA80 5AD) - 184p

Hilton Park South Service Area, Wolverhampton, Staffordshire (WV11 2AT) - 180.9p

Ferrybridge Service Area, Knottingly, West Yorkshire (WF11 0AF) - 180.9p

Most expensive diesel prices

Cluanie Inn Hotel, Inverness, Highlands (IV63 7YW) - 211.64p

Hilton Park South Service Area, Wolverhampton, Staffordshire (WV11 2AT) - 204.9p

Ferrybridge Service Area, Knottingly, West Yorkshire (WF11 0AF) - 204.9p

Leigh Delamere West Service Area, Chippenham, Wiltshire (SN14 6LB) - 204.9p

Severn View Service Area, Bristol, Gloucestershire (BS35 4BH) - 204.9p