Why Gas Prices Are So High And How You Can Save

Kirill Plyushko • October 4, 2021

Why Gas Prices Are High and How to Improve Fuel Efficiency | Burien Auto Repair

The national average for a gallon of gas has reached its highest level in over seven years. Between global supply issues and local economic recovery, it’s clear that high fuel costs aren’t going away anytime soon. Whether you’re a daily commuter or operate a commercial fleet, it’s worth understanding why fuel prices are surging and what you can do to cut costs.

At ABC Auto Repair in Burien, we help drivers improve fuel efficiency and reduce long-term wear through smart maintenance and practical tips.


What’s Causing the Rise in Gas Prices?

There are a few key drivers behind today’s elevated gas prices:

  • Lag in Production: Crude oil output slowed significantly in 2020 due to pandemic-related workplace restrictions. While demand plummeted during lockdowns, it has now returned without a matching increase in supply.
  • OPEC Supply Strategy: According to sources like Forbes and NPR, OPEC has been intentionally limiting oil supply to maintain higher profits.
  • Seasonal Blends: Every summer, prices rise slightly due to the use of more expensive fuel blends that meet stricter environmental standards. Some relief is expected as we transition into winter fuel blends, which are cheaper to produce.


9 Smart Ways to Save on Gas

Aside from the obvious (driving less and carpooling), here are 9 practical strategies to help you reduce fuel consumption and make every gallon count:


1. Check Your Gas Cap

A loose or worn gas cap can reduce fuel pressure and harm your gas mileage. Even if it clicks closed, it might not be sealing properly. Replacing a faulty cap is quick, inexpensive, and can lead to immediate savings.


2. Drive Smoothly and Avoid Speeding

Rapid acceleration burns more fuel. According to the Department of Energy, most vehicles achieve optimal fuel economy at speeds below 50 mph. While you should still keep up with traffic, easing off the throttle can save you money and reduce wear on your engine and brakes.


3. Keep Your Tires Properly Inflated

Under-inflated tires create resistance and reduce momentum, leading to lower MPG. Check your tire pressure regularly ideally every time you fuel up and keep them inflated to your vehicle's recommended PSI.


4. Reduce Excess Weight and Drag

Remove unnecessary cargo, especially heavy gear or roof racks. Extra weight and poor aerodynamics hurt fuel efficiency. Only use your roof carrier when necessary.


5. Stay on Top of Vehicle Maintenance

Tune-ups, fluid changes, and fresh air filters all help your engine run at peak performance. If your check engine light is on, don’t ignore it small issues can turn into major fuel wasters.


6. Consider a Lower Viscosity Oil

Using a thinner oil, if your vehicle allows for it, can improve fuel efficiency by reducing friction. Always consult your owner's manual or ask your Burien mechanic to find the right oil for your engine.


7. Get Fuel System Maintenance

Over time, your fuel injectors and filters can clog, reducing combustion efficiency. Try using a fuel treatment, or schedule a fuel system cleaning to restore lost mileage. If you need help, we offer full diagnostics and cleanings at ABC Auto.


8. Use Gas Apps to Find the Best Prices

Apps like GasBuddy can show you where to find the cheapest gas near your route. Fuel up while you're already nearby to avoid wasting fuel by going out of your way.


9. Switch to Propane (for Fleets)

For commercial fleet operators, propane is an increasingly popular alternative to gas. It burns cleaner and costs less per gallon. Learn more in our article comparing propane vs gas. At ABC Auto, we can help you maintain propane-powered vehicles or even assist with propane conversions.


Reliable Auto Service in Burien, WA

With prices high across the board, the best way to combat rising fuel costs is to make sure your car is running efficiently. At ABC Auto Repair in Burien, we provide:

  • Tune-ups and diagnostics
  • Fluid flushes and oil changes
  • Engine repairs and maintenance
  • Transmission service
  • Fuel system maintenance

Search Blog

Recent Post

By Kirill Plyushko April 17, 2026
Multiple warning lights and loss of power? Learn why proper diagnostics matter. Honda CR-V repair in Burien, WA at ABC Auto Repair.
A mechanic in dark coveralls works on the engine of a white car with its hood open in a garage.
By Kirill Plyushko April 12, 2026
Subaru suspension problems explained. Worn control arm bushings and stabilizer links affect handling and safety. Burien auto repair experts.
By Kirill Plyushko April 12, 2026
Most drivers see an oil change as a quick task, something to check off a list and move on with their day. But sometimes, those “routine” visits are exactly when bigger issues quietly reveal themselves. That’s what happened when Helen brought her 2003 Ford Windstar into ABC Auto Repair. It Started as a Simple Visit Helen scheduled her appointment for something straightforward: a full synthetic oil change. But before we got started, she mentioned a concern she’d been living with for over a year. “After about ten minutes of driving, the ABS light would come on. And during hard stops, the van didn’t feel as stable as it should.” Those kinds of issues can be tricky. They don’t always show up right away. They come and go, and over time, drivers often adapt to them. Even when they shouldn’t have to. Looking Beyond the Oil Change Every vehicle that comes through our shop receives a full inspection, not just the service it was scheduled for. During Helen’s inspection, our Ford-certified technicians took a closer look at the suspension and braking-related components. What they found was play in the front right control arm and worn stabilizer bar links. These parts play a critical role in keeping a vehicle stable during braking, quick maneuvers, and emergency stops. When they wear out, the car may still “feel fine” most of the time until it doesn’t. Clear Information, No Pressure We completed the oil service as requested and documented the safety-related findings clearly and transparently. Helen was given the information she needed to understand what was happening with her vehicle and plan her next steps on her own timeline. No pressure. No guessing. That’s how it should be. Why This Matters Modern vehicles are good at masking problems. Warning lights don’t always come on immediately. Changes in braking or handling can be subtle at first. That’s why we believe an oil change should never be treated as just an oil change. It’s your regularly scheduled check-in with a professional mechanic. A chance to catch developing issues early, before they turn into safety risks or expensive repairs. Ask Yourself One Question If warning lights come on after you’ve been driving… If something feels off during braking or steering… If a concern keeps coming back but never seems urgent enough… Ask yourself: Who’s really looking at your vehicle? At ABC Auto Repair, we treat every visit as an opportunity to give you clear answers, honest information, and confidence in your vehicle. If you’re due for an oil change, or something just doesn’t feel right, we’re here located in Burien Washington when you’re ready. Schedule your appointment today!
Technician checking brake fluid level under the hood at ABC Auto Repair in Burien
By Kirill Plyushko March 14, 2025
Wondering when to replace or refill your brake fluid? Learn the warning signs and service intervals from the experts at ABC Auto Repair in Burien.
Close-up of sports car suspension system at ABC Auto Repair in Burien
By Kirill Plyushko February 28, 2025
Wondering why sports cars have stiff suspension? Learn how rigid suspension boosts speed, control, and cornering and how ABC Auto Repair in Burien can optimize your setup.