While gas prices are dropping, more than three-quarters of drivers – 82% – say they are still concerned about the price of gas, and some common behaviours by drivers in British Columbia are actually leading to increased gas bills.
According to the results of a BCAA survey released October 28, 63% of B.C. motorists believe they know how to save fuel, but their actions prove otherwise.
For example, 63% of drivers will drive one kilometer or more out of their way to save a few cents per litre, but the savings of doing so are actually offset by the amount of fuel used to do so.
Forty four per cent of drivers do not get their vehicles serviced to improve their fuel economy, and 63% fill their cars with premium grade gas even if this is the wrong fuel type for their vehicles, leading to increased expenses.
The BCAA has developed a free app, downloadable at bcaa.com/gasprices , that it said can help motorists track the fluctuating daily price of gas at various stations along their driving routes and learn ways to save fuel.
“Even with the recent drop in prices, it's clear that things can wildly change,” said BCAA Road Assist associate vice-president Ken Cousin. “And, what you pay at the pump can also vary inside each community.
“If you want to find the cheapest fuel, it’s important for people to monitor daily gas prices to find the lowest gas price nearby or along their commute.
The organization said it is also wise to top up whenever prices drop – but that it is important to avoid driving out of your way to do so.
Keeping tires fully inflated and servicing your car regularly will save gas over time.
The BCAA also recommends stopping other gas-wasting behaviours, which include hard-braking and unnecessarily idling.
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