4 Tips to Alleviate the Pain at the Pump
In recent weeks consumers have noticed a spike in gas prices. According to AAA, gas prices have hit a record high in the US and increased by 20% from where they were last month.
If you’ve been feeling the pain at the pump, you may be looking for the best way to save money on gas. Here are four ways to help prevent some of the strain on your wallet while filling up.
1. Don’t Wait to Fill Up
If you’re strapped for cash, it may be tempting to wait until your car is on empty to fill up. However, there are two reasons why that may end up costing you more in the long run.
- By waiting until your vehicle is on empty, you may find yourself in a situation where you need to go to the nearest gas station to fill up—regardless of price.
- Waiting until your vehicle is running on fumes can create strain on your fuel pump. An empty gas tank will suck up debris and water at the bottom of the tank and can lead to your fuel pump assembly needing to be replaced.
2. Maintain Proper Inflation in Your Tires
Between the cold weather and the potholes, you may have noticed that your tires have low pressure. Low tire pressure can directly affect gas mileage and may end up costing you more at the pump.
FuelEconomy.gov states that tires that are inflated to the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended pressure can improve gas mileage between .6% and 3%. If you’re unsure of what your tire pressure should be, you can utilize your owner’s manual to determine the optimal tire pressure.
3. Pay With a Gas Credit Card
Two of the biggest perks about purchasing gasoline with a credit card are the cash back rewards and loyalty points. By paying with your gas credit card every time you fill up, you may be setting yourself to earn a percentage of cash back or money towards your next gas purchase.
4. Follow Your Vehicle’s Maintenance Schedule
Following your vehicle’s maintenance schedule not only ensures longevity but also may affect your vehicle’s gas mileage. Some key maintenance areas to focus on are:
- Replacing dirty or damaged air filters
- Replacing spark plugs as needed
- Keeping your engine tuned
- Changing your oil regularly
Each of these items can impact your vehicle’s fuel economy. For example, keeping your engine tuned can improve fuel economy by up to 4%.
You may not have control over what gas prices are at, but you still have options to save money at the pump. If you’re unsure about what maintenance your vehicle could benefit from to keep it running at the maximum fuel economy, consider taking your vehicle to your local mechanic.
Contact Warren Collision Shop, Pole Position Auto Body
If your vehicle is damaged due to an accident and you are looking for a Warren collision shop, schedule an appointment with the professionals at Pole Position Auto Body. Our state of the art equipment and trained technicians will make sure your vehicle is returned to you in pristine condition – inside and out.
