Gas prices moved up just slightly in most areas over the past week, but enough to set new records everywhere, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. The average regular unleaded gas price for Hawaii is $5.26, which is two cents more than last week and yet another new record for the state. The average national price is $4.14, up two cents from a week ago.
In Honolulu, today’s average price for regular unleaded is $5.15, which is just one-tenth of a cent higher than last week to set another new record, 10 cents higher than a month ago, and $1.46 higher than the price on this date last year. The Hilo average gas price is a record $5.29, up three cents from last Thursday’s price, 17 cents higher than a month ago, and $1.41 higher than on this date a year ago.
In Kahului, the average price is $5.38, which is three cents higher than last week and another new record, 13 cents higher than last month, and $1.60 higher than a year ago. Lihue’s average price for regular is $5.49, which is up three cents from last week and another new record, 13 cents higher than last month, and $1.54 higher than a year ago.
“It may be tempting to put off filling your tank until the last possible minute with these high prices, but AAA Hawaii reminds motorists that driving on empty strains the fuel pump and can eventually cause it to fail,” said Liane Sumida, AAA Hawaii general manager. “Plus, it puts you and your passengers at added risk of being stranded in a dangerous situation, since research from AAA’s Automotive Research Center shows the ‘miles to empty’ gauge on many vehicles is often inaccurate.”
More AAA Hawaii tips to save on fuel include:
- If you use premium unleaded fuel, make sure it is required for your vehicle, not just recommended. AAA’s Automotive Research Center found that vehicles with recommended premium fuel performed safely with regular unleaded gasoline.
- Make sure your tires are properly maintained and inflated to the correct level.
- Maintain your car according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Regular service will ensure optimum fuel economy.
- Avoid “jackrabbit” starts and hard accelerations. These actions greatly increase fuel consumption.
- Slow down and drive the speed limit. Higher speeds result in more aerodynamic drag.
- Use cruise control on the highway to help maintain a constant speed and save fuel. However, never use cruise control on slippery roads because you could lose control of the vehicle.
- Minimize your use of air conditioning.
- Avoid extended idling to warm up the engine, even in colder temperatures. It’s unnecessary and wastes fuel.
- Remove unnecessary and bulky items from your car.
- Minimize your use of roof racks and remove special carriers when not in use.
- Download the AAA Mobile app to find the cheapest gas prices near you.
Motorists can find current gas prices along their route with the free AAA Mobile app for iPhone, iPad and Android. The app can also be used to map a route, find AAA discounts, book a hotel and access AAA Roadside Assistance. Learn more at AAA.com/Mobile.
Prices as of 6 a.m., April 28:
