Gas prices are going up, up, up. Here’s how to save money if you need to drive

Gas prices are at a record-high in Tacoma, and the cost of fuel has been soaring at stations across the United States in the last week, but there are ways drivers can save money and get the most out of every gallon they pump.

Experts from Consumer Reports, AAA and GasBuddy recently shared tips on maximizing savings, and the strategies aren’t just about finding the cheapest place to buy gas. How you drive, planning ahead for purchases and the maintenance of your car are all test-proven ways to save money.

Drive to save

1. Drive evenly: Frequent bursts of acceleration or braking can reduce mileage. Once up to speed, maintain a steady pace. According to Consumer Reports, the harder you accelerate, the more fuel you use. Unnecessary braking wastes the fuel you used to get to get up to speed.
2. Drive the speed limit: On the highway, aerodynamic drag causes fuel economy to drop off significantly at speeds above 50 mph, according to AAA.
3. Coast before braking: When approaching a red light or stop sign, AAA suggest taking your foot off the gas early to allow your car to coast down to a slower speed until it’s time to brake.
4. Cruise control: Using cruise control to help maintain a constant speed helps save fuel. AAA cautioned drivers to not use the feature on slippery roads because it could result in a loss of vehicle control.
5. Stay aerodynamic: Remove roof racks when they are not being used. At highway speeds, more than 50 percent of engine power goes toward overcoming drag, and carrying unneeded things on the roof only adds to the problem.

Plan ahead, and be a smart shopper

1. Loyalty programs: Almost all gas stations have a loyalty program that offers cents off your purchase, and those rewards accounts can often be linked to a gas card. Discounts from some programs such as Shell Fuel Rewards and Kroger Fuel Points can be stacked on savings from a gas payment card.
2. Check online: Apps and websites such as Gas Buddy can show local gas prices. According to Consumer Reports, stations far from major highways and city centers tend to have better prices.
3. Plan travel: Preserve gas by delaying errands or other activities to avoid high-traffic times of day, and plan to accomplish multiple errands in one trip.
   
   
4. Skip premium: According to AAA research, premium fuel provides no added benefit unless it is recommended or required by your car’s manufacturer.

Car maintenance and ownership

1. Keep tires properly inflated: Having underinflated tires reduces fuel economy, according to AAA. Tires low on air also negatively affect handling and braking, and it can lead to more rapid wear and tear, overheating and blowout.
2. Stay at half: Having plenty of gas in your tank gives you more flexibility to find a cheaper gas station to fill up.
3. Regular service: Taking your car into a mechanic periodically helps ensure optimum fuel economy and performance. AAA also recommends going to a repair shop as soon as possible when the “check engine” light comes on.
4. Buy smart: When buying a car, look for models that offer the best fuel economy in their class. For most drivers, larger or more powerful engines aren’t necessary.

This story was originally published March 7, 2022 at 12:13 PM with the headline "Gas prices are going up, up, up. Here’s how to save money if you need to drive."

Peter Talbot

The News Tribune

Peter Talbot is a criminal justice reporter for The News Tribune. He started with the newspaper in 2021. Before that, he earned his bachelor’s degree in journalism at Indiana University. In college, he worked as an intern at NPR in Washington, D.C. He also interned for the Oregonian and the Tampa Bay Times. Support my work with a digital subscription