The average pump price on Kauai topped $5 a gallon for the first time ever and gas prices broke records throughout the islands due to the Ukraine war and continued domestic inflation, according to the AAA Hawaii Weekend Gas Watch. The average regular unleaded gas price for Hawaii is $4.81, which is 18 cents higher than last week and a new record price for the eighth straight day. The average national price is $4.32, up 59 cents from a week ago.
In Honolulu, today’s average price for regular unleaded is $4.71, which is 16 cents above last week, 38 cents higher a month ago, $1.32 higher than the price on this date last year and a new record price for the ninth straight day. The Hilo average gas price is $4.85, up 22 cents from last week, 41 cents higher than a month ago, $1.17 higher than on this date a year ago, and a new record price for the second straight day.
In Kahului, the average price is $4.98, which is 22 cents higher than last week, 40 cents higher than last month, $1.36 higher than a year ago and a new record for the second straight day. Lihue’s average price for regular is $5.04, which is up 17 cents from last week, 30 cents higher than last month, $1.19 higher than a year ago, and a new record for the second day in a row.
“Oil prices spiked this week on news that the U.S. would ban Russian oil imports, but they have dropped sharply in the past 24 hours after the United Arab Emirates announced they would increase oil production and encourage other OPEC countries to do the same,” said Liane Sumida, AAA Hawaii general manager. “However, inflation has been rising in the U.S. and is reportedly now at its highest level since 1982. It remains to be seen whether the state will experience more sharp gas price increases in coming days.”
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., March 10: