Are you looking for ways to save money on gas as prices continue to fluctuate? While gas prices have risen significantly compared to previous years, there are still plenty of ways to cut down on fuel costs.
As of January 2025, the national average for a gallon of regular gas is $3.12, a considerable increase from the $1.83 average in 2009.
Rising crude oil prices and global events have made gas more expensive, but with the right strategies, you can still save money at the pump and improve your vehicle's fuel efficiency. Here’s how you can start saving on gas today.
How to Save Money on Gas for Your Car
Ever wondered why is it so hard to save money?
But finding ways to save money on your vehicle expenses isn't hard if you know where to look.
From buying a car for the right price and learning how to shop for car insurance, the savings can add up. But what about saving money on gas? Here are some ways to do just that.
1. Buy Discounted Gas Gift Cards
Some gas stations offer special gift cards that provide discounted gas rates or exclusive savings when used at their pumps. You can also find discounted gas gift cards on sites like GiftCardGranny, Raise, and CardCash, allowing you to save a few extra dollars per fill-up.
For even more savings, consider using cash back apps for gas, like Upside or GasBuddy, which can help you save up to $1 per gallon at the pump by offering cash rebates and exclusive discounts.
- Save up to $1.00 per gallon
- Get instant cashback on every fill-up at thousands of gas stations nationwide
- No coupons, just cash back on gas
- Stack savings with apps for even bigger discounts
2. Slow Down and Drive Steady
Many drivers enjoy the thrill of driving fast, but high speeds burn more fuel and increase gas costs. By maintaining a steady speed and avoiding sudden acceleration, you can improve fuel efficiency and save money at the pump. Developing a habit of driving smoothly and keeping your speed in check can lead to significant long-term savings on gas.
3. Strategically Time Your Trips to the Pump
Most gas stations raise prices before the weekend in anticipation of increased travel. To save money, refuel earlier in the week when prices tend to be lower. Additionally, some stations consistently offer cheaper gas, and you can use apps like Upside or GasBuddy to find the best prices near you and maximize your savings.
4. Avoid Excessive Idling
Letting your engine idle for too long wastes fuel and costs you more money. Whether you're warming up your car or waiting in a parking lot, turn off the engine if you'll be stationary for more than a minute. Modern vehicles don’t need long warm-ups, so minimizing idling can help you save gas and reduce unnecessary fuel consumption.
5. Choose the Right Payment Method
Some gas stations charge extra for credit card payments due to processing fees, making cash the cheaper option. To avoid overpaying, look for stations where credit and cash prices are the same or use a rewards credit card like the Discover it® Cash Back that offers cash back on fuel purchases, helping you offset the extra cost while still earning benefits.
4. Use Cash Back Apps for Gas
Want to save money every time you fill up? Apps like Upside help you find the best gas prices near you and earn cash back on every gallon—no extra effort needed. Just claim an offer, pay with your card, and get real cash back. It’s that easy!
- Save up to $1.00 per gallon
- Get instant cashback on every fill-up at thousands of gas stations nationwide
- No coupons, just cash back on gas
- Stack savings with apps for even bigger discounts
7. Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
Routine maintenance plays a big role in fuel efficiency. Make sure your tires are properly inflated, as underinflated tires increase resistance and cause your car to burn more fuel. Regularly change air and fuel filters to ensure your engine runs smoothly and efficiently. Before a long trip, check your oil, tire pressure, and fluid levels to avoid unnecessary fuel waste and keep your vehicle in top shape.
8. Brake Smoothly and Strategically
Frequent and abrupt braking not only wears down your brakes faster but also wastes fuel. Try to maintain a safe following distance in traffic so you can coast rather than slam on the brakes. When approaching a stop sign or traffic light, ease off the accelerator early and let your car gradually slow down instead of braking hard at the last second.
9. Turn Off the Engine When Idle
Leaving your engine running while parked or waiting wastes gas and contributes to unnecessary emissions. If you’re stopping for more than a minute, turn off the engine instead of idling. Many modern cars no longer need long warm-up times, so starting and stopping the engine as needed is more fuel-efficient.
10. Reduce Wind Resistance
Wind resistance increases fuel consumption, especially at highway speeds. Keep your windows closed at high speeds, as open windows create drag that forces the engine to work harder. If you have roof racks, bike racks, or cargo carriers that you aren’t using, remove them to improve aerodynamics and reduce fuel waste.
11. Monitor Your Tire Pressure
Underinflated tires create more rolling resistance, making your engine work harder and reducing fuel efficiency. Tire pressure can fluctuate due to temperature changes, so check it regularly and keep it at the manufacturer’s recommended level. Many gas stations offer free air pumps, so take advantage of them to maintain proper inflation.
12. Get Regular Engine Tune-Ups
A well-tuned engine runs more efficiently and burns less fuel. Follow your car manufacturer’s recommendations for scheduled maintenance, including spark plug replacements and timing adjustments. Keeping track of when your engine was last tuned up ensures it operates at peak performance and maximizes fuel savings.
13. Change Air and Fuel Filters
Dirty or clogged filters restrict airflow to the engine, making it work harder and use more gas. If you live in a dusty area or drive frequently on unpaved roads, check and replace your air filters more often. A clean fuel filter also ensures better gas mileage and engine efficiency.
14. Use the Right Motor Oil
Using the wrong motor oil increases friction in your engine, forcing it to work harder and consume more fuel. Always use the oil recommended in your car’s owner’s manual to ensure optimal performance. Look for energy-conserving motor oils that contain friction-reducing additives to improve fuel economy.
15. Limit Air Conditioning Use
Running the air conditioner puts extra strain on the engine, reducing fuel efficiency. On cooler days, use the fan or roll down the windows when driving at lower speeds. Parking in the shade or using a sunshade can help keep your car cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning.
16. Maintain a Steady Speed
Frequent speed changes burn more fuel than driving at a consistent pace. Use cruise control on highways to maintain a steady speed and avoid unnecessary acceleration. If your car has an eco-driving mode, enable it to optimize fuel consumption.
17. Consider a More Fuel-Efficient Car
If you’re in the market for a new car, consider one with a higher miles-per-gallon (MPG) rating. Hybrid and electric vehicles offer significant savings on fuel costs, and some models are designed to maximize aerodynamics and engine efficiency. Even switching to a smaller or lighter vehicle can reduce gas expenses.
18. Remove Unnecessary Weight
Extra weight in your car forces the engine to work harder, increasing fuel consumption. If you’re carrying unnecessary items in the trunk or backseat, remove them to lighten the load. Roof racks and cargo carriers also add weight and wind resistance, so take them off when they’re not in use.
19. Check Your Gas Cap
A loose or damaged gas cap can allow fuel to evaporate, wasting gas and contributing to air pollution. If you notice a loose-fitting cap or smell gas near your car, consider replacing it with a new one to prevent leaks and improve fuel efficiency.
Final Thoughts
Gas prices fluctuate, but that doesn’t mean you have to overspend. By making small changes—like using gas rewards programs, maintaining proper tire pressure, and planning efficient routes—you can cut down on fuel costs without sacrificing convenience.
Joining a warehouse club, carpooling when possible, and using cash back apps like Upside can also add up to big savings over time.
Every little bit counts when it comes to stretching your fuel budget.
- Save up to $1.00 per gallon
- Get instant cashback on every fill-up at thousands of gas stations nationwide
- No coupons, just cash back on gas
- Stack savings with apps for even bigger discounts
