HARRISBURG (TNS) — Trying to predict the cost of gasoline is a very complex task — with so many factors at play, even the experts have a hard time managing it.
But that doesn’t mean there aren’t strategies that you can use to save a few bucks.
Organizations ranging from AAA and Consumer Reports to Experian have looked into ways to save gas and get the most out of each fill-up. And even with the prices constantly shifting, there are some strategies that can help you shop smarter for your fuel.
Here are a few tips on when, where, and how to fill your tank, and some tricks to make your fuel last.
1) Check your tire pressure.
The first tip doesn’t involve buying gasoline at all, and won’t cost much, if anything. Making sure that your tire pressure is at the correct level will ensure that your car isn’t using up extra fuel to get where you’re going.
2) Check the apps.
Several travel apps on smartphones can tell you the price of gas at stations near you. AAA and Gas Buddy both offer specialized apps for travelers, and even apps used for travel and directions like Google Maps and Waze can have price info included.
3) Choose your refuel location carefully.
Prices vary at each gas station depending on any number of factors, but there are some that are more likely to be cheaper than others.
Stations within cities are sometimes cheaper, according to Doni Spiegel, public relations manager for AAA Central Penn. Higher traffic in cities means that stopping for gas is usually less convenient than in the suburbs.
“They have more demand there [in suburban gas stations],” Spiegel said. “They might get high prices there because of the convenience factor.”
By that same token, gas on highways – particularly in places like the Pennsylvania Turnpike – can charge more, because motorists simply have fewer options while on the road.
4) Travel light.
The more weight that is in your vehicle, the more energy is required to make it move. That means if you have heavy things sitting around in your trunk, or are towing something with your vehicle, it doesn’t hurt to remove them if they aren’t needed.
5) Do regular maintenance.
Similar to the tip about tire pressure, making sure that your car is in good working condition can help maintain peak fuel efficiency. Things like regular oil changes can keep the machinery running at peak performance.
6) Be careful with air conditioning.
It’s important to be comfortable, but AC does use a lot of energy. Try to park in the shade when you’re not driving, in order to keep your car cool to start with. And when possible, roll down your windows instead, especially when driving around town — save the AC for when your windows are rolled up and you’re on the highway.
7) Drive at a steady rate (and don’t speed).
Keeping your speed constant while on the highway is a lot better for your fuel economy than constantly speeding up and slowing down. And the faster you go, the more fuel you’ll need to maintain that speed, so try to accelerate smoothly and gradually when necessary. Plus, that’s even more incentive to drive the speed limit.
8) Keep idling to a minimum.
If you’re stuck in traffic that isn’t moving, or waiting an unusually long time at a drive-thru, go ahead and shut off your car. Keeping the engine running when you aren’t moving is just using more gasoline. Experts also advise you to not keep the car idling to warm it up, even during winter.
9) Use the right gas for your vehicle.
Studies have shown that the premium gas offered at most stations doesn’t usually provide an increase in performance for most vehicles. Unless your vehicle calls for a specific type of gas, the regular blend is probably fine.
10) Drive less.
This one is a bit obvious, but it’s worth repeating: not driving at all doesn’t use any gas. If you can avoid making an extra trip by lumping several errands together, or maybe take a walk instead, go for it.
