We’re in our cars a lot in the summer, not only for vacations but for outings to the park, the kids’ baseball games and more, all while that AC is cranked.

Oh, and don’t forget all the trips to the gas station.

“During the summer, drivers tend to put more miles on their cars,” says Steve Steinmetz, director of automotive services for AAA Western and Central New York. “With the increase in traffic on the roadways, the demand for gas goes up and, along with that, typically gas prices do, too.”

While local AAA members can take advantage of gasoline discounts at Fastrac Markets, improving your car’s fuel efficiency is another smart way to cut costs related to car ownership.

Here are four main things that drivers can do to help with fuel efficiency during the summer months:

Check your tire pressure

Always keep your tires properly inflated. Many cars have a sticker inside the driver’s door that will tell you what the proper inflation level is for your particular make and model.

Use your cruise control

Use as directed by your car’s manufacturer.

Check air filters

Replacing air filters when needed will increase performance and acceleration on all vehicles, older or newer.

Check engine lights

By keeping your engine running efficiently, you can improve gas mileage. And addressing a serious maintenance problem, like a faulty oxygen sensor, will also improve your vehicle’s fuel efficiency.

These items and more would be checked during a multi-point vehicle inspection on your car. AAA provides those inspections for free at more than 80 local AAA Approved Auto Repair shops and at both AAA Car Care Plus locations in Western New York.

The mechanic will inspect all aspects of a car’s performance, and the results will be clearly marked for items that need immediate attention and any looming problems.

“All members can request a copy of this report for their review, so they know what will be needed for repairs, if anything at all,” Steinmetz says.

Find a AAA Car Care Plus location near you today!

AAA Car Care Plus