I now pay nearly $5 for a gallon of gas?and the pain at the pump is only going to get worse, according to Sean Brodrick, a commodities analyst at Weiss Research, Inc.
He attributes this trend to escalating demand, especially in China and India… the decreasing value of the dollar… and declining worldwide production. (For example, Mexico’s oil output is at a nine-year low.) Sean says that gasoline prices could go as high as $8 a gallon if events such as a massive hurricane in the Gulf of Mexico or conflict with Iran shake the market.
Gas-saving strategies…
Use technology to avoid traffic. Besides avoiding rush hours, plan routes to bypass construction and accidents. Resources…
Don’t use air-conditioning at speeds less than 60 miles per hour (mph). Open the windows instead.
Use the Internet to find the lowest gas prices — but don’t waste gas and money driving extra miles to buy it. The Department of Energy Web site, www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/gasprices/states, links to sites with pricing data.
Turn the pump handle 180° after pumping gas. This forces a bit more gas into the tank. Also, tighten the fuel cap firmly before you leave.
Don’t use four-wheel drive when it’s not needed. More gas-saving advice that many of us know but often don’t follow…
Slow down. Fuel economy drops by about 1% for every mph faster than 55 — and declines even faster when speeds exceed 65 mph.
Avoid quick starts and stops. Watch the road ahead so that you can maintain an even pace and coast to a stop. Use E-ZPass or other fast-lane payment to breeze through tolls.
Don’t idle. Turn off the engine if you’ll be at a standstill for more than a minute. Idling gets 0 miles per gallon.
Maintain your car. Keep tires inflated… replace your engine air filters… and use the grade of motor oil recommended by the car’s manufacturer.
Get rid of excess weight — the roof rack when it is not in use and extras in the trunk.
