Google Maps Now Shows Live Fuel Prices: How to Find the Cheapest Petrol Near You
By Caroline at Simon Shield Cars | 8 October 2026
We've all done it. The fuel light comes on, you pull into the nearest garage, and you wince at the price while the pump is already running. Then you spot a different station down the road that was 6p a litre cheaper.
As of today, there's a much better way. Google Maps now shows live petrol and diesel prices at forecourts across the UK, so you can check before you go rather than regret it afterwards.
Here's how it works, how to find it, and how to make sure you're actually saving money.
What's new on Google Maps?
Google Maps now displays near real-time fuel prices when you search for a petrol station. The same prices are showing in Waze too.
The prices come from the Government's Fuel Finder scheme, which launched earlier this year. Petrol stations are now required to report any change in their pump prices within 30 minutes, and the scheme covers around 99% of all the fuel sold on UK roads. That means what you see on your screen should be close to what you'll pay at the pump.
How to find fuel prices on Google Maps
It takes about ten seconds:
Open Google Maps on your phone.
Search for "petrol" or "fuel" in the search bar.
Compare the prices shown against the stations near you.
Tap a station to see a full breakdown of every fuel type it sells and what each one costs.
If you can't see it yet, try updating the Google Maps app first.
Prefer other apps? The same Fuel Finder data is also available through Waze, Petrol Prices, the AA, Confused.com and RAC Fuel Watch.
A few tips to make the most of it
Think about the detour. The cheapest station isn't much use if you burn through your savings driving across town to reach it. The sweet spot is usually the best price on a route you're already driving, such as your commute, the school run or your usual Saturday trip to Ipswich. We're finding Stowmarket is the cheapest as of today.
Check before you set off, not when the light comes on. The best time to compare prices is when you have a bit of tank left and a choice about where to stop.
Tap into the station. Prices can differ between fuel types, so check the one your car actually takes rather than just the headline figure.
And if fuel bills are the real problem...
Compare prices all you like, but the biggest factor in what you spend on fuel is the car you're driving. A thirsty engine will cost you the same whichever forecourt you choose.
That's why so many of our customers come to us looking for hybrids, mild hybrids and efficient petrol cars. They want something reliable that costs less to run, without compromising on space or comfort for the family.
We've been a family-run used car dealership in Suffolk since 1996, and we hand-pick every car we sell. If you want to know what a particular car will really cost to run, ask us. We'll give you an honest answer, even if that means pointing you towards something else.
Looking for a more economical car in Suffolk?
Whether you're in Stowmarket, Needham Market, Ipswich or further afield, we'd love to help. Have a look at our latest arrivals at or get in touch for a no-pressure chat about what would suit you. Tel: 07702 410254
And go and try the fuel prices on Google Maps next time you're running low. Your wallet will thank you.
How do I see fuel prices on Google Maps? Open Google Maps on your phone, search "petrol" or "fuel", then tap a station to see every fuel type and its price.
Are the prices live? They're near real-time. Petrol stations have to report price changes within 30 minutes, so what you see should be close to what you'll pay.
Does it show diesel as well as petrol? Yes, you can see both, and the full breakdown for each station is a tap away.
Does it work in Waze too? Yes, Waze now shows the same prices.
Is it free? Yes, there's nothing extra to pay or sign up for.
What's the best way to cut my fuel costs overall? Comparing prices helps, but the car you drive makes the biggest difference. Ask us about hybrids and efficient petrol cars and we'll give you an honest answer on running costs.