AAA: Great Lakes, Central region gas prices to be quarter cheaper this fall

When filling up at the pump this fall, many motorists from Ohio and the rest of the Great Lakes and Central states will likely find a savings of at least 25-cents/gallon compared to this summer, despite the recent gas tax increase of 10.5-cents/gallon.

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Contributing factors for cheaper gas prices include robust regional refinery utilization, healthy levels of gasoline stocks, the drop-off in gasoline demand after Labor Day and the move to winter-blend gasoline.

“The most expensive gas prices of the year are likely in the rear-view mirror,” AAA spokeswoman Kara Hitchens said. “With crude oil selling for less than $60/bbl and gasoline demand anticipated to decrease in the coming weeks, motorists in the Great Lakes and Central states should expect to find savings at the pump this fall.”

Since Memorial Day, the region as seen gasoline stocks and regional refinery utilization increase weekly, according to Energy Information Administration’s report. It’s likely this trend will slow as summer demand drops-off and refineries make the switch to winter-blend gasoline.

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In addition to cheaper gas prices, there’s also other ways to save at the pump and boost your vehicle’s fuel efficiency. AAA recommends the following:

• Perform required maintenance as specified. Keep tires properly inflated, moving components adequately lubricated, and ignition and emission systems in good operating condition will help ensure maximum fuel efficiency and extend the life of your vehicle.
• Change engine oil at the intervals indicated by the in-car maintenance reminder system or factory schedule. Use an "energy-conserving" oil that meets the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
• Keep tires inflated at the proper pressure. Use the figures on the tire information decal on the driver's door jamb, not the one molded into the tire's sidewall. Under-inflated tires reduce fuel economy and can be a safety hazard.
• Check the engine air filter at every oil change. A dirty filter won't affect fuel economy on a modern fuel-injected car, but it'll reduce engine performance.
• Engine spark plugs must be in good condition. Some types last for 100,000 miles, but others need to be replaced more often.