CAA - Canada's Rising Gas Prices

Important information about calls for boycotts

CAA's position on our crumbling roads and highways

There are several options available to savvy consumers who want to get the most from their fuel dollars. These options range from buying more fuel efficient vehicles to applying fuel efficient driving practices.

CAA offers gasoline saving tips for:

Savvy Consumers
Smart vehicle owners
Motorists before hitting the road
Important information about calls for boycotts
CAA's position on our crumbling roads and highways

CAA recommends the following practices to get the most from your gasoline dollar:

Here is what you can do as a savvy consumer
1.	Shop aggressively for the best price of gasoline.
2.	Fuel consumption can vary widely from one class of vehicle to the next. Consider purchasing the most fuel-efficient vehicle in the class of vehicle you require. If you are buying new, remember to check the EnerGuide label for the fuel consumption rating that is affixed to your vehicle. Try to avoid buying a vehicle that is bigger than what you actually require.
Here is what you can do as a smart vehicle owner
1.	Read your Vehicle Owner’s Manual and use the grade of fuel recommended by the manufacturer.
2.	Keep your vehicle properly maintained to optimize fuel efficiency (engine, transmission, steering and brakes). Ensure that air filters are inspected. A poorly maintained engine can increase fuel consumption by up to 50%.
3.	Change motor oil as recommended by the manufacturer.
4.	Remember that excessive idling (like warming up your vehicle on a cold day) wastes a lot of gas and can be hard on your engine. On really cold mornings, use a block heater, if possible, to help your engine start more easily and reach its peak operating temperature faster.
5.	Make sure your tires are properly inflated and check your tires’ pressure regularly, especially after a sharp drop in the temperature. Recheck your tire pressure when the weather gets warmer. Under-inflated tires will increase fuel consumption.
6.	Use your air conditioner sparingly.
Here is what motorists can do before hitting the road
1.	Lighten your load, and avoid carrying non-essential heavy items. If there is something you do not really need – do not pack it. Remove roof racks unless they are really needed.
2.	Plan your trips carefully. Combine errands and avoid peak travel periods, whenever possible. Trips of less than five kilometres generally do not allow the engine to reach its peak operating temperature, especially in cold weather. That means higher fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Give yourself plenty of time to get to your destination. If you are racing against the clock, you are likely to drive too fast and accelerate too quickly – both of which waste fuel and impact on your safety and the safety of others on the road.
3.	Plan your route to mitigate stops and starts. Observe the posted speed limit. Driving 100 km/h instead of 120 km/h can decrease fuel economy by 20%.
4.	Use public transit if it is an option for you or try sharing a ride with others. Pooling can stretch your travel budget.

The CAA does not endorse or encourage boycotts because they have not proved to be effective and do not target individuals who have an ability to affect gasoline pricing. Over the years, a number of people have organized boycott efforts against selected oil companies. Such actions penalize station owners and staff – not the oil company itself.