Study shows 17% of UK drivers cut vehicle use due to fuel costs and MoneyHelper launches a new price‑finder tool.

Fuel‑price pressure on UK motorists

Rising pump prices are now more than a nuisance for many drivers. A recent Money and Pensions Service (MaPS) survey reveals that almost one in five motorists are having to trim their vehicle use or reduce household spending to keep up with higher fuel costs. The findings come as the United Kingdom continues to feel the financial ripple from ongoing conflict in the Middle East, which has kept wholesale fuel prices elevated.

How many drivers are cutting back on journeys?

The MaPS research shows that 17% of respondents sometimes have to curb the mileage they put on their cars or cut back on other household expenses in order to afford fuel. While these drivers can still afford to fill the tank, the extra spend forces them to make tough choices about daily travel and discretionary spending.

Unaffordable fuel for a smaller group

For a minority – just 2% of those surveyed – the cost of fuel has moved beyond the realm of affordability. These drivers report that the price of a single trip to the pump is now beyond what they can realistically manage, highlighting a growing divide between those who can absorb price hikes and those who cannot.

Concern about fuel costs is widespread

Overall anxiety about fuel prices is high. Sixty per cent of the 2,111 participants said they were worried about the cost of fuel, while just over half (51%) claimed to know which local petrol station offers the cheapest fuel. This gap points to an opportunity for better information to help motorists make cost‑effective choices.

MoneyHelper launches a new fuel‑price finder

In response to the survey, MoneyHelper – the money and pensions guidance service operated by MaPS – has introduced a petrol price finder tool. The tool is designed to give drivers real‑time, impartial information about the cheapest fuel near their home, alongside guidance on budgeting, benefits and long‑term money management.

Anna Sharkey, head of money and pensions policy and propositions at MaPS, explained: “We know that for many people, the cost of filling up is no longer just an inconvenience, it’s affecting everyday household decisions. Our new fuel finder tool is designed to give people practical, impartial help in the moment, while also connecting them to wider support on budgeting, benefits and managing their money in the long‑term.”

Study methodology and sample details

The research was commissioned by MaPS and carried out by YouGov. Of the total respondents, 1,370 own and regularly use a petrol, diesel or hybrid vehicle – driving at least once a week – and therefore pay for fuel themselves. These participants formed the core of the analysis that highlighted the 17% who are cutting back and the 2% who find fuel unaffordable.

Further resources for dealers and consumers

The original article was published on Car Dealer Magazine.

Are rising fuel prices forcing UK motorists to cut back on driving?