More than half of Americans who participated in a recent poll said rising gas prices are a “major” problem, which means some of us in the U.S. may be tempted to let our gas tanks get low before filling up.
Even though average gas prices in the U.S. were up to a hefty $4.24 per gallon Friday, purposely keeping a low gas tank move could end in a truly expensive disaster, according to experts.
“While the cases are rare, there is real potential of a costly mechanical problem,” said Consumer Reports Auto Test Center shop supervisor and certified mechanic John Ibbotson back in 2011, the last time gas prices soared over $4 per gallon in the U.S.
Consumer Reports, a non-profit group, explained that gasoline doesn’t just power vehicles. It also acts like a coolant for electric fuel-pump motors. When fuel is low, the pump can suck in air and create heat, which can cause the fuel pump to wear prematurely and even fail. If that happens, the repair could cost hundreds of dollars.
Motorists driving on a low tank to avoid high fuel costs also run the risk of getting stranded without enough fuel and getting dirt in their fuel tanks.
To avoid these scenarios and potentially expensive repairs, Consumer Reports recommends always keeping gas tanks at least one-quarter full and filling up tanks before heading out on a long trip.
Along with the 52% of participants in a Fox News poll who said that rising gas prices are currently a “major” concern for their family, 88% said rising gas prices pose some problem for their family. According to AAA, there were no states with average gas prices under $3 as of Friday.
AAA said that “strained supply” and increased demand for oil and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in late February have increased prices at the pump.
As of Thursday, AAA said a “drop in gas demand is contributing to price decreases,” that are slightly bringing costs down for U.S. motorists. However, a steady increase in the price of oil is slowing the decrease.
Related
Related
