5 On Your Side

As gas prices rise, 5 On Your Side shares tips for saving at the pump

Gas prices are on the rise again, the highest we've seen in seven years.

Posted Updated

By
Monica Laliberte
, WRAL executive producer/5 On Your Side reporter
RALEIGH, N.C. — Gas prices are on the rise again, with the highest price in seven years.

5 On Your Side's Monica Laliberte said to get more out of each tank, don't speed off when the light changes.

"The harder you accelerate, the more fuel you use," said Mike Quincy, with Consumer Reports. "The goal should be to drive evenly and anticipate the movement of traffic."

Speeding can also impact fuel economy, according to Quincy.

For a Toyota RAV4, Consumer Reports found that reducing speed from 75 to 65 miles per hour improved fuel economy by six miles per gallon. Dropping to 55 mph improved fuel economy by an additional eight miles per gallon.

Quincy said that tire pressure can also impact mileage.

"Having tires with lower pressure than what is recommended on your door jamb sticker can affect fuel economy, along with performance and handling,” he explained.

If you have a roof rack you’re not using, Consumer Reports said to remove it. On a highway, more than half of a car's engine power goes to overcoming aerodynamic drag.

Finally, be sure to check nearby gas prices to find the best deal. Generally, the better prices are at gas stations away from major highways and downtown areas and at warehouse stores.

Drivers should also skip getting premium gas, unless it's required, which is indicated on the door of the gas tank.

Instead, many cars list premium gas as "recommended," which means it's optional.

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