9 tips to help save fuel as gas prices surge

ORLANDO, Fla. — Oil prices surged this week toward a historic high, pushing gasoline prices over $4 a gallon.

According to AAA, the national average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the U.S. hit $4.065 Monday.

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As President Joe Biden announced Tuesday that the U.S. will place a ban on Russian oil imports, Americans are looking for ways to save money at the pump. Here are nine fuel-saving tips from AAA:

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1. Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Modern cars don’t need “tune ups,” but regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy, performance and longevity. Take your car to a repair shop as soon as possible if the “Check Engine” light comes on. This indicates a problem that is causing excessive emissions and likely reducing fuel economy.

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2. Keep tires properly inflated. Underinflation reduces fuel economy, but more importantly, tires low on air degrade handling and braking, wear more rapidly and can overheat and blowout.

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3. Slow down and drive the speed limit. On the highway, aerodynamic drag causes fuel economy to drop off significantly as speeds increase above 50 mph. And avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard acceleration. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.

4. Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in winter. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel. Also avoid prolonged idling in general. If your car will be stopped for more than 60 seconds, shut off the engine to save fuel. Many newer cars have automatic engine stop-start systems that do this.

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5. When driving in town, adjust your speed to “time” the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel. When approaching a red light or stop sign, take your foot off the gas early and allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.

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6. Use cruise control to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because a loss of vehicle control could result.

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7. In hot weather, park in the shade or use a windshield sunscreen to lessen heat buildup inside the car. This reduces the need for air conditioning (and thus fuel) to cool down the car.

8. Remove unnecessary and bulky items from your car. It takes more fuel to accelerate a heavier car, and the reduction in fuel economy is greater for small cars than larger models.

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9. Minimize your use of roof racks and remove special carriers when not in use. On the highway even an empty bike, canoe or ski rack can reduce fuel economy, and a loaded rack or car-top container will have a major effect on gas mileage.

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