Gas prices are above $4 in Texas. Here’s why, how to save at the pump
Texas drivers are seeing another jump at the pump, with gas prices climbing above $4 a gallon statewide for the first time in nearly four years.
The statewide average for regular gas reached $4.09 per gallon on Wednesday, May 6, up from $3.85 a week prior, according to AAA.
Dallas and the Fort Worth-Arlington are averaging $4.15 and $4.19 a gallon on Friday, May 8, making North Texas the most expensive metro area for gas in the state right now, according to AAA.
AAA says gas prices could continue fluctuating in the coming days and weeks, but there are still ways drivers can save money at the pump.
Here’s what to know.
Why are gas prices rising in Texas right now?
The cost of crude oil, the main ingredient in gasoline, is driving much of the increase.
“Crude oil prices have elevated due to geopolitical tension overseas and uncertainty surrounding the Strait of Hormuz, which is a major shipping channel,” AAA spokesperson David Armbruster said. “Crude oil makes up 50% of the cost of each gallon of gas so with oil prices being elevated, that’s why we continue to see elevated gas prices.”
He said oil prices have eased slightly over the last couple of days, when they were over $100 earlier this week.
“But that doesn’t necessarily mean that gas prices are just going to start dropping, it would take crude oil prices continuing to drop and staying down to really have an effect on gas at the retail level,” he said. “That’s not an immediate process. It would take some time.”
What can drivers do to save money on gas?
Armbruster said driving habits can have a major impact on fuel consumption, so you should avoid speeding and unnecessary idling.
“Accelerating at a smooth pace can increase your fuel efficiency by 15% alone,” he said. “And If your vehicle is going to be sitting in a parking lot or driveway for more than a minute, it’s probably better to just turn it off, that way you’re not burning fuel.”
Drivers can also improve fuel economy by using cruise control on highways and not rolling the windows down.
“If your windows are down, it creates more drag on the vehicle, so the engine has to work harder to power your vehicle forward and therefore, you’re going to use more fuel,” he said. “You might need the AC because it’s warming up here in Texas, so this might not be an option for everyone, but not using it is one of the ways you can save.”
Armbruster encourages drivers to compare prices between stations instead of automatically stopping at the same place every time to fill up.
“You should always go shopping around,” he said. “Drivers can also use rewards programs, fuel apps and tools like AAA’s gas cost calculator to estimate fuel expenses before summer road trips.”
