According to the Energy Information Administration, the national average price for regular unleaded gas hovers around $3.52. The average has jumped $0.92 since this time last year. If you have a 20-gallon tank, you’re now paying an extra $18.40 every time you fill up. And the prices are expected to continue to rise.
If you fill up your tank every week, you’ll end up paying an additional $956.80 a year.
We know that you are probably sick of hearing all of the negative news about gas prices. And we aren’t here to make you feel worse about owning an auto. In fact, we have 3 helpful tips for saving money on gas.
1. Don’t be a lead foot.
The biggest drain on your gas tank is your heavy foot. Accelerating quickly sucks up more gas than any other action you take. Keeping your ride smooth will save you money. Even if you are locked in stop and go traffic, you can pay closer attention to how cars are braking ahead of you so you can decelerate and accelerate more smoothly. By paying attention and driving at an even pace, you can save 10% – 20% on your gas mileage easily.
2. Check your tire pressure.
There really isn’t any good excuse for not knowing the proper air pressure for your vehicle. You have it listed in three areas. You can find the recommended PSI on the inside end panel of your car, truck or SUV door when you open it, in your Owner’s Manual and on the outside of your tires. By filling your tires to the recommended PSI, you are reducing the surface area of contact with the road and thus reducing the friction your engine must compete with to keep it moving.
3. Search online for the cheapest gas prices in your area.
Before you head out to the pump, do a quick check online at GasBuddy.com for the lowest prices in your area. Since they provide map services for a number of the stations they have listed on their site, this is a great tool for planning your next road trip. You may be able to find another gas station close by that has lower prices by $0.05 – $0.10 a gallon.
If you have any other tips that you think will help our readers, we appreciate you sharing by leaving a comment below.
Keeping your air filter clean at all times, will also help keep gas mileage up.
You’re right, Dennis. Thanks for the tip!