21-07-2025
Gas prices going up? 4 tips to help you save money
A motorist fills up at a gas station in Montreal. (Ryan Remiorz / THE CANADIAN PRESS)
It's no secret that gasoline prices have skyrocketed in recent years.
With people searching for new ways to protect their wallets from the soaring expenses, some may wonder if they should be taking a closer look at their cars.
CAA-Quebec automotive expert Jesse Caron gives Noovo Info his tips and tricks to help motorists avoid over-consuming gas.
Pick your vehicle carefully
The larger your vehicle, the more it will cost you at the pump, Caron explains.
'If you don't need a large, gas-guzzling vehicle, skip it,' he quips.
Check your tires
Significantly under-inflated tires have a direct impact on gas consumption.
'Tires at four to five PSI can consume up to 15 per cent more fuel just for that reason,' Caron points out.
Vehicle maintenance
Making regular maintenance appointments at the garage could cost you less in the long run.
Two things to remember: change your oil and clean your air filter regularly.
'Oil that's too old will over-consume fuel,' notes Caron.
Refine your driving techniques
'You can make the biggest difference at the wheel,' says Caron.
A few things to remember:
Accelerate and brake smoothly
Follow the speed limit
Maintain a constant speed
When you disobey the speed limit, especially on a highway, your wallet also pays the price, Caron points out.
'At 120 km/h you get between 15 per cent and 20 per cent more fuel consumption,' he said.
Overall, Caron explains that any driver who isn't careful with their vehicle could consume 40 to 50 per cent more fuel.
Myths about fuel consumption
Does turning on and off your engine consume more fuel than simply leaving it on?
It's a myth, says Caron.
'You can turn the engine off as much as you like and start it up again without consuming more fuel,' he said.
What about air conditioning?
It depends, said Caron, pointing out that there isn't much difference if you're on a highway.
