Want to Save on Gas & Money? - July/August 2006

By Sandy Klim

In recent decades, automobile manufacturers have made significant advances toward improving the overall energy efficiency of most passenger vehicles. Yet Americans continue to purchase larger, less fuel-efficient vehicles. Because of this trend, the average fuel efficiency of new vehicles has changed little over the past 20 years—averaging about 24 miles per gallon.

Also, motorists are driving more. According to the latest statistics from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Americans drive an average of 29 miles a day and spend some 55 minutes of every day in their vehicles. The average vehicle is driven about 12,000 miles per year, and annual per-vehicle gasoline use is approximately 550 gallons.

AAA Member Savings Help Offset Fuel Costs

As a AAA member, you can save on a variety of products and services. Don't forget to take advantage of these great member benefits:

Show Your Card & Save® discounts on everything from shopping to dining, entertainment and more. To search for the more than 150,000 locations and participating partners, visit aaa.com/save.

Enjoy lodging and attraction discounts. Take advantage of exclusive member savings on fabulous hotels and great attractions, including SeaWorld, Discovery Cove and Universal Orlando.

Use a AAA Visa card for

a rebate of up to 5 percent off gas purchases made at the pump.

Receive a free 24-point inspection at one of the AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities to ensure your vehicle's running at its best.

The free AAA Prescription Savings Card can save you up to 35 percent at your local pharmacy.

AAA's Travel professionals can plan and book your next vacation. Check out member-exclusive offers and benefits.

Fuel Saving Tips

If your vehicle's engine does not need premium fuel, using anything other than regular is simply a waste of money.
Don't top off your gas tank. In warm weather, fuel expansion can cause overflow.

If you must replace a gas cap, make sure it is the right one for your car.

Keep track of gas mileage. If you notice a decrease in fuel economy, your vehicle may not be operating at peak performance.

Ensure that tires are properly inflated for peak fuel efficiency.

When possible, combine errands with your daily commute.

If your work hours are flexible, try leaving earlier in the morning or returning home later in the evening to reduce fuel burned in bumper-to-bumper traffic.

Talk to your employer about telecommuting. Working from home one day a week can significantly reduce your fuel consumption over the course of a year.

Participate in a car or van pool.

For short trips, try bicycling or walking. You'll save fuel, and your body will thank you for the exercise.

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