Pumpwatch enforcement begins

The UK’s long-awaited Fuel Finder Scheme entered full enforcement from May 01, 2026, requiring all forecourts to report fuel prices to a central database within 30 minutes of any change.

The move powers platforms like Pumpwatch, a UK government initiative designed to bring transparency to petrol and diesel prices. It is designed to give drivers real-time visibility on the cheapest fuel nearby. But motoring experts at My Car Reg Check said the new system will not fix everything — and drivers should still be cautious.

Despite the push for transparency, industry data showed that around one in four forecourts were still not fully compliant during the soft launch earlier this year. May 01 marked the first point at which penalties can be issued.

According to My Car Reg Check, the biggest savings will come from how drivers use the data, not just having access to it.

“Drivers who benefit most from Pumpwatch are the ones planning ahead,” a spokesperson said.

“For a Bank Holiday journey, check prices before you leave, not when you are already on the motorway. “The biggest price differences tend to appear between urban areas and motorway routes.

“It is often worth filling up before joining major roads, even if the price difference looks small. Over a full tank, those few pence per litre add up quickly.”