How much did you spend the last time you filled up at the pump? $30? $60? Gas is ridiculously expensive these days and topping off your tank can soak up a large chunk of your monthly budget. Luckily, there are some easy ways to save a bit of cash the next time you pull into the local gas station. Here are our top five tips:
Rethink Premium
Don’t get suckered into thinking that premium grade gasoline is the only gas that will make your car run well. Lower octane gas works just fine for most of the cars manufactured today. Pull out your vehicle’s owner manual and see what grade of fuel the manufacturer recommends. Chances are that the lowest octane will have your car performing just as it should.
Fill Up in the Dark
Have you ever noticed that the gas prices on your way home are higher than they were when you left in the morning? You’re not alone. If gas prices are going to rise during the day, it tends to happen during rush hour. If you need to fill up, you stand a better chance of getting the cheapest price very early in the morning or later in the evening.
Check Your Air Pressure
Virtually nothing can wreak havoc on your gas mileage more quickly than your tires! Check your tire pressure often, particularly in cold weather, and be sure they are inflated to their proper pressure. Your owner’s manual will give you the number and, if you don’t have an air compressor, you can fill your tires at virtually any gas station for less than a dollar.
Scoot Around Town
Scooters aren’t just for college kids. In fact, scooters are becoming more and more popular for tooling around town as gas prices continue to rise. A typical scooter costs about $4 to fill and gets 100 miles per gallon. What this means for you is that you can drive over 400 miles for less than $20. Chances are you aren’t getting that kind of gas mileage with you current vehicle!
GasBuddy
GasBuddy is the most downloaded gas price comparison app. Gas prices are uploaded by real users and in real time. This means that you can search for gas stations in your area and be virtually guaranteed that the price you find will be the same price when you pull up to the pump. Search by state or city to find the cheapest gas prices available. The app is perfect for those on the go, and GasBuddy also has a comprehensive website to use at home or the office before you head out.
Saving money on gas is foremost on every driver’s mind. Unfortunately, many of us aren’t able to walk or pedal to our destinations; driving is a necessity. Following these tips will, at the very least, keep a bit of cash in your pocket the next time you fill up.
Gas scooters on your child’s wish list this year? Ned Greene’s sons want them this year. He is on the hunt to find the best deal to make their wish come true.