For many Americans, gas feels more expensive than ever with average state price rising above their historical peaks. The current national average is $4.98 per gallon. Photos have gone viral of gas prices in states like California going over $7 per gallon, and people throughout the country are feeling this price shift even if it’s not as drastic.
It may seem as though this is a situation with no way out — most people cannot simply abstain from purchasing gas, after all — but there are some tips to save on some gas costs this summer, and for as long as this price crisis lasts.
Check and clean your engine air filter
When the air filter is dirty, the engine has to work harder to get clean air, increasing the use of gas with each trip. A dirty filter can actually reduce milage by one to three miles per gallon. The engine air filter should be checked and cleaned every three to six months.
Keep your car as light as possible
While this may seem like simple physics, many people forget that the heavier a car is, the more gas it will need to get from point A to point B. Make sure your trunk is empty if you don’t need the stuff you usually keep in there. If you have any cosmetic modifications that add weight to your car, consider having them taken off.
Plan your drives carefully
Always make sure you are mindful of where you are going, and be sure to use the quickest navigation possible to get to your destination. If possible, try to avoid left turns, because idle time at lights can be one of the biggest ways to waste gas. Also, try to avoid any hills on your drive if possible.
Plan gas station trips carefully
To most, the best time to get gas is when their car needs gas. While that rule may be true when gas prices are more typical, in times like these it’s important to plan ahead. For example, throughout 2022 gas has been most expensive in the middle of the week and not on the weekends. This is a reversal of historic trends. And while it may seem smart to drive to a specific station for marginally cheaper gas, it may be more cost-effective to choose a station closer to where you live.
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