Every time I put gas in my 1997 Cavalier I just about have a small heart attack.  I think it has a 13 or 15 gallon tank, and when I first got the car during my college years, I literally could fill the thing up for about $20.  Now, I regularly fill her up with about $40, and it hurts!

Since I don’t think the gas prices are going to be coming down any time soon –  rumour has it we might hit $4 a gallon by summer – take a deep breath and read these six ways to save some money at the pumps:

  1. 1. Make use of gas rewards programs.  Watch for credit card offers that feature cash back or gas rebates.  Most of these specific rewards programs will increase the amount of your reward on all of your gas purchases, so get in the habit of swiping the card to fill up your tank, and paying your gas bill off at the end of each month when you get your statement to receive your gas rebates.

2. Learn how to drive better.  Seriously, you can improve the number of miles per gallon of gas your car gets simply by driving better.  Drive under 65 mph for improved gas mileage, maintain steady speeds on the open highways  instead of pushing the pedal, letting up- repeat. 

3. Don’t drive when you don’t have to.  We’d all like to be in better shape.  If your destination is close enough to walk or ride your bike – go for it. Not only will you save on gas but you’ll get yourself into better shape.  Also consider public transportation or car pooling whenever possible.

4. Don’t buy gas just before or over the weekend.  Have you ever noticed the prices increase on Fridays?  Gas stations know people take trips on weekends that require a last minute fuel-up.  Try to fill up on Wednesday and make it through the weekend, the gas prices typically drop again come Monday.

5. Stop driving 22 miles out of your way for the cheaper gas station price.  You’re spending the difference by using more gas.  Just buy gas at the station with the best price that’s on your normally traveled route.

6. Maintain your car.  Having properly inflated tires, clean air and fuel filters, and fluid levels all contribute to your car using less gas and functioning at the highest ability.  It costs less to maintain the car than to try and fix it from lack of maintenance.



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