AAA offers tips drivers can use to offset higher gas prices

Gas prices have increased sharply during the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, leaving many drivers facing unexpectedly high costs at the pump.

After a period of relatively stable and low gas prices, the national average price for regular unleaded gas – which had been below $3/gallon since early December 2025 – quickly jumped following the war in Iran that began Feb. 28. The national average gas price is now around $4 per gallon.

“As drivers, we can’t control the global fuel market, but we can control how efficiently we use every gallon,” said Jana Tidwell, AAA Club Alliance public and government affairs manager. “Additionally, there is uncertainty about how high prices will go and how long they will stay high, but there are simple actions drivers can take to improve their gas mileage and save money at the pumps.”

From regular car care to using resources for gas discounts and adapting the way they drive, motorists can follow these tips to lessen the pain at the pumps.

First, always maintain vehicles 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 cars 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.

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 blow out.

On the daily drive, 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.

Avoid speedy starts and hard acceleration. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption. Also avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in winter. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.

In general, avoid prolonged idling whenever possible. If the 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.

When driving in town, adjust speed to stay in time with the traffic lights. This reduces repeated braking and acceleration that consume additional fuel.

When approaching a red light or stop sign, release the gas pedal early and allow the vehicle to coast down to a slower speed until it is time to brake.

Accelerate smoothly with light to moderate throttle. This allows the automatic transmission to upshift into higher gears sooner, reducing engine rpm and saving fuel.

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.

In a car that has a manual transmission, upshift as soon as possible without “lugging” the engine. When practical, drivers can also save fuel by skip-shifting – for example, going directly from first gear to third.

The practices above will help improve fuel economy. Also, keep these more general fuel-saving tips in mind:

Minimize use of air conditioning. Even at highway speeds, open windows have less effect on fuel economy than the engine power required to operate the air conditioning compressor.

Combine errands into one trip and travel during off‑peak times when possible.

For those who own more than one car, choose the most fuel‑efficient option for each trip.

While high prices remain, consider shopping around for the best gas prices. Drivers can use tools such as the free AAA mobile app to find and compare current gas prices closest to their location.

Take advantage of discounts. Fuel retailers, grocery store chains and discount clubs sometimes offer discounts on each gallon of gas purchased or based on customer spending or accumulation of points for shopping there. There are also credit cards that provide fuel discounts or cash-back bonuses on fuel purchases.

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.

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 for larger models.

Minimize 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.

AAA research has found that unless premium fuel is recommended or required by a vehicle’s manufacturer, it provides no added benefit. Motorists should refer to their vehicle’s owner’s manual to check which type of gasoline is recommended for their engine.