Fuel prices fall again – but are drivers still paying too much?
May 02, 2025 by Siobhan Doyle
Car changing is a big deal
UK drivers enjoyed a second consecutive month of falling fuel prices in April, with petrol and diesel dropping by 2p per litre. But, the RAC says the cuts don’t go far enough.
The average price of petrol now stands at 134.1p per litre while diesel has fallen to 140.6p, according to the latest figures from RAC Fuel Watch. However, the RAC says that drivers are still being short-changed at the pumps.
The motoring organisation points out that wholesale oil prices stayed below $70 (£52) a barrel throughout April, far lower than in March. Given the reduced costs retailers are paying for fuel, the RAC argues that pump prices should be at least 4p per litre lower than they are now. That would bring petrol down to 130p and diesel to 136p – saving you more than £2 on a typical tank of fuel.
“A full tank of unleaded now costs just under £74, and diesel just over £77,” said Simon Williams, RAC’s head of policy. “But prices should be even lower. Drivers right across the UK should really be benefitting from more meaningful price reductions.”
Northern Ireland leads on lower fuel costs
If you live in Northern Ireland, you’re in luck. Motorists in the region are currently seeing the best deals in the UK, paying an average of 128.8p for petrol and 133.7p for diesel. That’s nearly 7p per litre less than the UK average for diesel, giving you savings of almost £4 on a full tank.
Got a Costco card? Good news! Members are also seeing significant savings, with unleaded averaging 125p a litre and diesel at 131p across the retailer’s 20 UK sites.
Supermarkets continue to offer competitive prices too, with average prices of 131p for petrol and 137p for diesel – though some, such as Asda and Sainsbury’s in Ipswich, are selling unleaded for under 125p per litre.
There’s pressure on retailers to cut prices further
The RAC is calling on major fuel retailers to pass on more of their savings to customers. “It’s good news that prices have dropped again, but disappointing that retailers didn’t go further,” Williams said. “There’s still scope for a cut of around 4p a litre.”
He added that the RAC is closely watching how new powers given to the Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) are being used to monitor pump pricing. The CMA previously found evidence of overcharging in both 2022 and 2023.
In the meantime, the RAC is urging drivers to shop around. Its free myRAC app helps users find the cheapest forecourts in their area and compare prices to national averages.
Carwow also offers a tool to help you find the cheapest petrol and diesel prices. Just select your fuel type and enter your postcode to see the most affordable options at stations near your current location or chosen address.
Car change? Carwow!
Looking for a new set of wheels? With Carwow you can sell your car quickly and for a fair price – as well as find great offers on your next one. Whether you’re looking to buy a car brand new, are after something used or you want to explore car leasing options, Carwow is your one stop shop for new car deals.
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