Some common gas-saving tips may not be as effective as believed.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — As Memorial Day approaches, marking the start of the summer travel season, many North Carolinians are preparing for their trips.
According to a NerdWallet survey, 38% of travelers plan to drive instead of fly this year, aiming to save money. With gas prices in North Carolina averaging $2.86 per gallon, below the national average of $3.15, drivers are keen to find ways to cut costs. However, some common gas-saving tips may not be as effective as believed.
Patrick De Haan, a petroleum analyst with GasBuddy, and experts from AAA, have debunked several myths about saving on gas.
Will topping off your gas tank after the pump shuts off save money?
“Usually when the pump shuts off, your vehicle is about 98 or 99% full, and topping off really isn’t necessary,” De Haan explained. AAA adds that overfilling can saturate your vehicle’s vapor recovery system, potentially causing permanent damage.
Is there a certain day of the week where filling up then will save money?
“Filling up on a certain day of the week is probably not going to cause you to pay a whole lot more or less,” De Haan clarified. “There are more effective ways to save, such as shopping around before you fill your tank.”
He noted gas prices depend on the time of year and the economy.
Is off-brand gas bad for your vehicle?
“All gasoline will run just fine in your vehicle,” De Haan said. “It’s more about the station’s maintenance practices, but 99.9% of stations sell gasoline that is perfectly safe for your car.”
As you prepare for your Memorial Day travels, keep these insights in mind to ensure a smooth and cost-effective journey.
Contact Meghan Bragg at [email protected] and follow her on Facebook, X and Instagram.
For the latest breaking news, weather and traffic alerts that impact you from WCNC Charlotte, download the WCNC Charlotte mobile app and enable push notifications.
