Few workshops recognise fuel economy as a benefit of engine oil, according to new research commissioned by Shell Helix.

The survey of 200 UK garages shows that just 2% of workshops recognised fuel economy as a significant benefit of using the right engine oil. Less than one in 10 (9%) said they discussed fuel economy when advising customers on oil choice.

Jonathan Ellis, automotive lubricants sales manager for Shell UK, said: “With advanced synthetic engine oils, drivers can increase fuel efficiency by as much as 2.2%.

“This may sound small, but combine it with other fuel efficiency measures, such as smoother driving, better tyres and efficient fuels, and the savings can really add up.”

Top 20 AM100 dealer group JCT600 uses Shell Helix lubricants and highlights the fuel economy benefits of the right engine oil to its customers.

Phil Southern, JCT600 group operations director, said: “Fuel economy is something we regularly advise our budget-conscious customers on, and engine oil is an important part of the toolkit.”